Coin-Op and Advertising Sale Rings Up Nearly $400,000

Early Fall Sale Included Full Spectrum Of Gambling, Arcade And Vending Machines, And Other Curious Collectibles

October 13, 2023

Potter & Potter Auctions is pleased to announce the results of this 700-plus lot sale held on Sept. 22. All prices noted include the company's 20-percent buyer's premium. The top lot was a rare gum vender selling for $10,800. Reflective of the culture and aesthetic of the era in which it was produced, it was made by the White Vending Machine Company in 1902, in the form of a painted, cast-iron caricatured head of an Asian man with a broad, smiling mouth with teeth and prominent black eyebrows. His black base was integral to his design, and his coin slot was in his forehead. This gum dispenser had dual vending slots in its mouth for sticks of chewing gum. A light-up, pedestal barber pole sign made by the Koken Companies Manufacturers of St. Louis, Mo., sold for $9,600. This large, impressive cast-iron and porcelain outdoor standing light stood 83.5 inches tall and was made in the 1920-30 time frame. It was detailed with leaded red and white glass and a glass tapered dome on its top. A double sided wooden hanging outdoor saloon sign delivered $9,000. It was made for the J. F. Jecker Saloon in the 1910-20 time frame and incorporated a star symbol with the establishment's street address. The Lone Star saloon was located in Victoria, Texas, first owned by L. F. Jecker, who sold the business to his brother, Joe, in 1911. A five cent "Good Luck" poker trade stimulator rang up $6,000. It was made in Detroit. Mich., by Caille Bros. in the early 1900s. This countertop example had a wooden cabinet mounted on a swiveling stand detailed with cast-iron accents and two glass windows, three decals, and a pay table marquee. A one cent "Billiard Practice" shooting game realized $4,080. It was manufactured in Chicago, Ill., by the A.B.T. Mfg. Corp. around 1931. The arcade machine challenged the player to shoot a ball into one of its pockets with an attached pistol, offering five shots for one penny. It was in working condition and included its original lock, key, and cashbox. "We were pleased to offer such a diverse collection of material in this, our second coin op and advertising auction of the year. The strong results in the advertising category were particularly gratifying, and prove that rarity and condition are always sought after, and frequently fought over," according to Gabe Fajuri, president at Potter & Potter Auctions. Potter & Potter Auctions specializies in paper Americana, vintage advertising, rare books, playing cards, gambling memorabilia, posters, fine prints, vintage toys, and magicana (antiques and collectibles related to magic and magicians). To learn more, call 773-472-1442.

 

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