DENVER, Pa. – Morphy Auctions’ lively April 20-22 Coin-Op & Antique Advertising Auction delivered a fantastic selection of rare slot machines, amusements and early advertising to an eager audience of bidders, cashing out at just under $3.7 million. The multi-session sale featured dozens of sought-after categories, including country store memorabilia, which was represented by one of the largest collections of its type to reach the marketplace in decades.
DENVER, Pa. – Once found at saloons, hotel lobbies and oceanfront boardwalks all across America, antique coin-op machines are quaint reminders of an era when radio, television and video games were still mysteries of the future. For mere pocket change, turn-of-the-century fun-seekers could enjoy an entire afternoon of entertainment. By simply dropping a penny, nickel or quarter into the slot of a coin-operated machine, they could have their fortunes told, watch primitive motion pictures, listen to rhapsodic tunes from a mechanical band, or try their luck at any number of gambling devices or games of chance.