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THE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ERIE / ERIE, PENNSYLVANIA c. 1940–1955
$59.99
1 in stock
Description
Estimated Era: 1940–1955
SKU: VB-FNB-PA-ERIE-CANV-1950S
Description
This authentic deposit bag originates from the First National Bank of Erie, Pennsylvania, a long-established regional bank that operated in the heart of downtown Erie throughout much of the 20th century. The bag is constructed of tightly woven canvas with brass eyelets and a heavy cotton drawcord, an industrial-grade design typical of postwar banking supplies.
The printing is in black block lettering, positioned centrally, with clear institutional formality. These bags were used for teller cash transport, coin deposits, or inter-branch currency transfers before armored courier systems became widespread. The utilitarian form and durable stitching reflect an era when banks favored reusable, locally manufactured materials.
Historical Context
During the mid-20th century, the First National Bank of Erie served as one of the city’s cornerstone financial institutions, supporting Erie’s industrial, shipping, and manufacturing communities. The design of this bag mirrors the transition between early leather pouches and later vinyl zipper deposit bags, marking a shift toward practical, mass-produced canvas used by regional banks across America.
The bag’s straightforward style, use of block type, and absence of ZIP code markings also suggest production before 1963, the year ZIP codes were introduced helping narrow its age to roughly the 1940s or 1950s.
Condition
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Material: Worn but stable, with expected patina and light discoloration
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Print: Faded but fully legible
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Drawstring: Intact, original cord with minor fray at ends
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Overall: Excellent mid-century example with strong structure and character
Significance
This piece represents a time when American banks proudly branded their operational tools. The sturdy canvas and bold lettering served both functional and promotional purposes, reinforcing reliability and local presence in every transaction. As a surviving artifact, it reflects the craft and integrity of mid-century banking culture in industrial Pennsylvania.
Catalog & Preservation
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Catalog ID: VB-FNB-PA-ERIE-CANV-1950S
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Condition: Very Good; authentic wear consistent with age and use
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Preservation Notes: Store flat in archival sleeve; avoid moisture and direct sunlight to preserve ink and fabric integrity
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Collection: VintageBanker.com – National Bank Collection
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1863 Jun 22 | Bank chartered | The First National Bank of Erie was chartered under national banking laws. (Bank Note History) |
| 1949 May 2 | Takeover of Ensworth National Bank (Waterford) | The bank announced a takeover of another local bank, Ensworth National Bank of Waterford. (Bank Note History) |
| 1968 Nov 21 | Shareholders approve consolidation with First National Bank of Meadville | The First National Bank of Erie and First National Bank of Meadville approved a plan to merge, forming the First National Bank of Pennsylvania under the Erie charter. (Bank Note History) |
| 1969 Feb 28 | Federal approval of merger | Federal approval received to merge Erie and Meadville banks, creating the larger institution under charter #12. (Bank Note History) |
| 1992 Jul 24 | Merger into Marine Bank (Warren, PA) | According to bank-note history sources, the institution (or its successor) merged into Marine Bank in 1992. (Bank Note History) |
