January 28-29 2017 Premier Coin-Op & Gambling
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/28/2017
A most unusual, as well as visually appealing coin operated gambling machine from the 1920s. Normally found in 5 cent denomination, this example is a dime model. Dropping a coin into the cat's ear and depressing a lever, a paper ticket is dispensed through the cat's mouth along with a gumball dispensed by depressing a rod between the cats front paws. A marquee displaying the award card is attached to the cat which then indicates the value of the paper ticket that was dispensed. This machine includes a roll of the original paper tickets. Normally a coin viewing window is present but this example is one of the few known with a metal tag reading "LUKAT The Lucky Cat", which obscures the small circular coin viewing window. These machines were not a commercial success and only limited quantities were ever produced thus only a limited number are known to exist today. Attractively painted, the cat is mounted to a large wooden box with a rear drawer giving access to the proceeds. Overall in very fine working order with aged "time period" repaint to the castings. Includes key. Made by Lu-Kat Novelty Co., of San Francisco.
Condition: (Very Good).
Item Dimensions: 6-1/2" x 14" x 15-1/2".