October 29, 30, & 31, 2020 Coin-Op & Advertising
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/29/2020
Produced by John Lighton Machine Co. in 1892, the company was said to produce eight machines from 1892 through 1893: three different model trade stimulators, three different model slot machines and two different models of strength testers. This particular lifting machine was known to be his best work and therefore was called simply "The John Lighton's Lifting Machine". Purportedly, the brass statue figure on the front of the machine is John himself, testing the machine. Below the statuette of John is a brass plate with the name of the machine in bold lettering. Above his statuette is the brightly multi-colored replacement paper dial, stating "Press Knob Before Pulling Up", "Test Your Strength" and "Can You Ring the Bell" and measuring strength from 0 to 1000 pounds. Above the dial is an impressive curved brass plate embossed with the words "The Lighton Machine Co." and "Syracuse, N. Y." with an elevated coin drop surrounded by ornate oak leaf designs. Original lifter handles extend through the brass plate and provide two ways of testing strength, pulling from the two side handles or pulling from the top single grip position. Cast-iron back door opens to reveal a very primitive type coil spring mechanism in perfect working order, no breaks, cracks or repairs. The back door reads "Caution All Persons Caught Tampering with this Machine will be Dealt with According to Law. Lighton Machine Co.". Bottom coin door reads "Patented Feb 5 1889 April 5 1889 April 5 1890". Certainly one of the rarest strength testers we have ever had the privilege to sell. The overall state of this machine in conjunction with the wonderful brass, silver and cast-iron colors make it a centerpiece in any investment-grade collection. Working and with keys.
Condition: (Very Good - Excellent).
Item Dimensions: 37" x 25 - 1/2" x 15 - 1/2".