April 11-13, 2024 Coin-Op & Advertising, Las Vegas
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/13/2024
There are not but a handful of these vending machine in collections, and they seldom come to auction. Here is a very rare opportunity to own one of the most desirable arcade vending machines manufactured. In and around 1905, there was a daredevil bicycle stuntman who called himself "Diavalo," making the rounds in the circus trade for Sells Brothers, who had a partial owner named J.A. Baily, of Barnum and Baily fame. Mercer Manufacturing Company, makers of the vending machine, patterned the clown on the bicycle at the center of the machine after the stuntman and his bicycle stunt. Utilizing a clockwork mechanism, when a penny is inserted, Diavalo does a loop in the window and the patron receives a piece of tab gum. These machines were mostly located at carnivals and circuses, and took advantage of the stuntman's fame. CONDITION: It is showing original paint to the case with all original interior. The correct tin case, front casting with no repair, and original clown and mech. Reference: "Silent Salesman Too" by Bill Enes, page 153.
PROVENANCE: From the lifelong collection of Bill Howard.
This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.Condition: (Very Good)
Item Dimensions: 18" x 11" x 6"