Lot # 104: c.1940s Exhibit Cards Arcade-Style Wooden Vending Machine

Starting Bid: $250.00

Bids: 37 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed


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Item was in Auction "Fall, 2023 Premier Auction",
which ran from 11/5/2023 12:00 AM to
11/25/2023 9:00 PM



Circa 1940s arcade-style wooden vending machine from the Exhibit Supply Company of Chicago. The two-tiered machine allowed collectors to insert two pennies, “push slide in, pull out slowly - receive Card.” Founded in 1901, the Exhibit Supply Company (aka, ESCO) was one of the many arcade machine manufacturers that made Chicago the central hub of all things coin-operated in the 20th century. Measuring 38" high by 16" wide and 7 3/4" deep, in outstanding condition, the wood clean and intact with a few light abrasions here and there, and some minor patina on some of the metallic components. The original key is present, the interior components as well.  We do believe this piece to have undergone some restoration; the wooden back panel to the top component does not appear to be original, and the advertising signage inside appear modern (though the Exhibit cards of Hugh Casey, Pete Resier and Gil Hodges do appear authentic).  A tremendous collectible.  Please note that the large size and weight of this piece will require additional shipping charges.

Note: at the request of several bidders we did some additional testing on the functionality of the piece.  While it is not currently functional we believe it could be restored to functioning order.  The coin deposits currently do not move fluidly, and tend to jam.  The interior components are intact, though some wooden internal components appear to be part of the restoration.  In its current state, however, this is not a functional piece.

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