Preliminary identification

Vintage 'Breaker 19' CB Radio Microphone Novelty Piggy Bank

Photo reference

2 uploaded photos

Overview

A quintessential piece of 1970s pop culture, this piggy bank is meticulously modeled after a trucker's Citizens Band (CB) radio microphone.

Story

In 1973, a national speed limit of 55 mph was imposed in the U.S., inadvertently turning the CB radio into a tool of rebellion as truckers used it to warn each other about 'Smokey' (police) speed traps.

Maker / Origin

While often produced by anonymous novelty manufacturers in East Asia, these items were the bread and butter of 1970s gift shops and truck stops.

Condition & Value

The bank appears to be in very good condition with the 'chrome' finish on the plastic grill still largely intact. The box shows typical shelf wear, including some softening of the corners and minor creasing, but remains structurally sound. The presence of the box is a significant plus for value.

Full Research

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps

Regional auction

· Jun 2024

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

$1,280

SOLD

Dealer archive

· Mar 2024

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

$1,450

SOLD

Marketplace sale

· Jan 2024

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

$980

SOLD

Estate platform

· Oct 2023

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

$1,150

SOLD

Auction result

· Aug 2023

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.

$1,375

SOLD