May 15th 2016 Premier Coin-Op Sale *Las Vegas (64)
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/14/2016
This is an incredible poker machine from the earlier part of the twentieth century, one of three known examples, with a most unique appearance as well as the mechanical play action. When a nickel is dropped in the slot and the thumb lever depressed, the cards in the viewing window drop, and the five independent individual reels with spring activated playing cards flip around in a counter clockwise fashion. Suddenly, upon releasing the thumb lever, the poker hand pops up into the viewing window. The elaborate mechanism is encased upon a wooden base and surrounded by metal and fanciful castings. Emblazoned upon the front below the viewing window is the machines name "California". Of an unknown, obscure manufacturer, this machine is handsomely presented in an older restoration with a black copper oxide finish to the metal cabinetry. Great action and in need of a very minor adjustment for cards to pop up into the viewing window(perhaps a stronger spring or a little lubrication?). Ron has indicated he purchased the machine a number of years ago from Tom Gustwiller and is not sure if all the castings/metalwork are original to the machine. It appears that the cash drawer and marquee are most likely not original but match nicely to the overall appearance of the machine. Includes key.
Condition: (Very Good).
Item Dimensions: 13" x 11" x 15-½"