WHAT: A 25-cent Mills roulette floor model slot machine circa 1901 that sold recently at Morphy Auctions for $158,600 is one of only a few known to exist. The roulette wheel can be viewed by looking down into the top of the 45-inch tall case.
MORE: Called a seven-way machine because it accepts seven different coins on a single pull, the machine features an unusual hexagonal wooden box hiding nickel plated works. Total restoration in 1987 included replating the works, plus exterior fixtures including claw feet.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: The machine sold as part of a dedicated auction limited to coin-op machines and collectible advertising. Smart collectors know that dedicated sales of antiques and collectibles offer focused collections of better goods.
HOT TIP: Pennsylvania-based Morphy Auctions held this sale in their Las Vegas gallery because they knew that the best way to cash in on collectible coin-ops is to sell where there is a focus of interest.
BOTTOM LINE: Early coin-operated machines — from peep shows to vending machines, amusement machines (think fortune tellers) to player pianos and musical machines of all kinds — are hugely popular with buyers who seek out the rarest in working condition.
