This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
American inventor William Rowe invented the cigarette vending machine in 1926. This is an early model circa 1930s Rowe eight column counter top cigarette machine, designed completely in the art deco style, black with silver trim. Including the optional base which converts it to a floor-standing model and doubles as a locked storage cabinet, it stands 66" high x 21" wide x 12" deep. Near the top is embossed "Rowe Vending Machine, New York, U.S.A." Below this is a small mirror, and below that is embossed "Cigarettes." There are eight levers and eight columns, the center six of which are visible and have plaques for "Chesterfield," Old Gold," etc. The far left column is for matchbooks and the far right for coin return. Above the levers are three engraved instruction plaques, with a fourth above. The machine accepts U.S. coin currency of nickels and dimes. In overall EXMT condition with minor chipping and surface rust, the rear right leg of the top section has been repaired.