Links of London Silver Plated Piggy Bank

A distinctive and sculptural Links of London piggy bank, crafted in silver plate and designed as a modern interpretation of the traditional savings motif. With its smooth, rounded form and minimal detailing, the piece reflects the brand’s approach to giftware—refined, tactile and quietly playful.

This example has developed a naturally aged surface over time, revealing warm copper tones beneath the silver plating. While technically a condition flaw, the resulting finish creates a unique, almost lifelike character that closely resembles the natural colouring and markings of a pig.

A Sculptural Object with Character

The form is intentionally simple and well balanced, with softly defined features including the snout, ears and curled tail. The coin slot is positioned along the back, while a removable plug beneath allows access to the interior.

The proportions and weight give the piece a satisfying presence, making it suitable not only as a functional money box but also as a decorative object.

Condition and Finish

This piece is in structurally excellent condition, with no damage to form or function. However, the silver plating has begun to age beneath the surface, resulting in visible copper oxide tones alongside areas of silver and darker patination.

Under conventional restoration standards, this would require complete re-plating to return to a uniform silver finish. In this instance, the decision has been made to preserve the current surface, as the tonal variation enhances the character of the piece and aligns naturally with the subject.

The surface has been lightly cleaned and buffed only, without aggressive polishing or restoration.

Design Context

Links of London produced a range of giftware alongside its jewellery collections, with piggy banks forming part of its accessible luxury offering. These objects were designed to be both functional and symbolic, often given to mark milestones, celebrations or new beginnings.

The pig motif, long associated with saving and prosperity, is here interpreted through a modern lens—clean, minimal and enduring.

Measurements

• Length: 14cm
• Width: 7cm
• Height: 8cm
• Coin slot: 35mm x 4.75mm
• Base plug diameter: 40mm

Materials

• Silver plated base metal

Condition Summary

• Structurally excellent
• Heavily aged plating with visible copper tones
• Lightly cleaned and buffed only
• Fully functional

A Different Kind of Finish

Rather than detracting from the piece, the aged surface gives this piggy bank a distinctive identity. Each tone and marking is unique, creating a one-off object that sits somewhere between functional design and decorative sculpture.

As part of the Links London Vault, it represents not just the original design, but the way objects evolve over time—acquiring character that cannot be replicated.