This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
One of the most popular pinball machines of its day, this rare 1934 "World's Series" game was one of the first mechanical pinball machines ever made and was a mechanical marvel in pinball machines of its time. Manufactured by the "Rock-Ola Mfg. Corp.," the machine measures 43" high, 16" wide and 36" in length. Accepting nickels, it keeps track of strikes, balls, runs and outs. The mechanical center disk is geared and advances a turn each time a ball is made on base, tripping an arm that releases the gear to move the ball to first base and then drop back in place. The score is automatically recorded in a runs dugout at the bottom of the playing field that holds the balls that are dumped by the disk as they reach home plate. Although the coin slide has patent dated of May 1933 (1908380 and 1908752), these machines were not offered to the public until May 1934. There are two additional patent numbers painted on the playing field: 90927 and 1842863. There is an access panel with lock and key on the front face, between the coin slide and the ball shooter, upon which is painted "RMC, It's a Rock-Ola." There is a reproduction "Play Ball" sign with instructions mounted on the rear. Made entirely of wood, wire and pins to guide the ball along the sloped "field," thus the term "pin" ball. Wonderful art deco style original wooden legs. This rare machine shows partial restoration where needed, otherwise all original. Machine is in perfect working order.