November 20-21, 2019 Coin-Op & Advertising
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/20/2019
Holcomb & Hoke dates back to 1903. Fred Hoke and James Holcomb were in several businesses together before moving to Indianapolis. In 1914 the pair went into selling popcorn machines. Their marketing suggested that 65 cents of every dollar was profit. The machines sole new for $400 - 500 and the more elaborate machines for $1250 or more. In 1934 manufacturing was halted due to the Great Depression. These floor model machines are fully automatic. The process includes dumping the desired amount of kernels into the popper, agitating the kernels into popping and buttering it. The owner must then salt to their own preference. This beautiful fully steam-powered machine is adorned with a fresh peanut roster is believed to be manufactured in 1915. Because Holcomb & Hoke did not add serial numbers to their machines the exact date cannot be determined. This machine is beautifully nickel-plated on every piece possible and the inside of the machine is stainless steel. One of two known to exist. It has the original boiler with a nickel-plated sleeve over it. The cabinet is a rich mahogany wood with a dark finish setting off the immaculate nickel plating. It is equipped with high grade casters for easy movement and also equipped with storage drawers for supplies, money, bags and the like. The glass panels in the spinning light atop the machine are reproductions but certainly do not take away from this wonderful example of early ingenuity. Machine can be made functional bu attaching an air supply to the retro-fitted attachment next to the boiler at new owner's discretion. Not tested. This particular machine has a "hot nut" peanut roasted attached for selling salted or blanched warm peanuts or other nut meat.This absolutely stunning example comes with its own life-size mannequin, a period five gallon kerosene jug, a butter jug and several other accessories. You will never have another opportunity to acquire a better example of this machine to your high-end collection.
This is not a standard shippable item and will require 3rd party shipping or pickup arrangements to be made.
Condition: (Restored)
Item Dimensions: 82" x 66" x 24".