Vintage Big Boy Bank

In 1936, 21 year-old lunch counter jockey Bob Wian sold his prized 1932 DeSoto roadster for $300 to finance the purchase of a ten-stool Los Angeles lunch counter called “The Pantry.”  He experimented with creative approaches to the simple hamburger: slicing a standard sized hamburger bun into three thinner parts rather than the typical two, he separated each slice with a hamburger patty, along with his own special sauce and condiments blend. Rabid customers called the burger “the big boy” and the name stuck.

After a decade of perfecting every aspect of the menu, atmosphere and service, Wian opened the now iconic Bob’s Big Boy Drive-In in Burbank, California. Designed by mid-century architect, Wayne McAllister, the restaurant featured the futuristic streamlined shapes of the era. More locations soon followed, with the chain instrumental in developing what is now considered the "1950s Modern" or “Googie” look, with tall prominent blade-shaped signs, soaring roof lines, and clean interiors drawing inspiration from the space age and oversized fins on cars.

As Bob’s Big Boy became a larger chain, Wian saw a national opportunity, selling his first territorial franchise to Detroit area restaurateurs, the Elias Brothers, in 1952. Ever an independent thinker, Bob gave the franchisees a great deal of latitude to keep their own names alongside the “Big Boy” moniker. In addition to the Elias Brothers in Michigan, major franchisees included Frisch’s of Cincinnati and Shoney’s in the Southeast. 

Over time, the little Big Boy mascot became a national icon.  The company distributed millions of Big Boy comic books, originally written by future Marvel comics leader Stan Lee. As if plucked from one of these colorful comics, this Vintage Big Boy Bank seems to leap from the page. Manufactured from a soft and pliable molded vinyl, each of these banks features Big Boy in checkered overalls, complete with a wide-eyed look and spiffy coiffure. 

Whether you prefer your Bob's Big Boy Chili Size, On a Raft or to Drag It Through the Garden, these classic figures are ready to hold court (not to mention lock eyes!) within your collection of Big Boy, mid-century or advertising memorabilia.

Each bank is strictly one-of-a-kind and subject to prior sale. Banks sold separately. Please make your selection from the drop down menu. In very good vintage condition. Bank A measures 8.5"H x 4.25"W x 2.75"D. Bank B measures 9"H x 4.5"W x 3.5"D. Bank C measures 9"H x 4.25"W x 2.75"D.