Why Did We Think These Childhood Toys Weren’t Scary?

The Face Bank is a small, square piggy bank, but the front is a grotesque, rubbery human face. It has eyes, a nose, and a gaping mouth. When you wave a coin in front of its motion-detecting eyes, the face comes to life. The mouth starts to chew and contort mechanically as it “eats” your money, swallowing it into the bank’s belly. It’s designed to encourage saving, but it’s more likely to generate nightmares.