Overview
A quintessential piece of 1970s pop culture, this piggy bank is meticulously modeled after a trucker's Citizens Band (CB) radio microphone.
Preliminary identification
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
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
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.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Regional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375