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Slotmachineclub.com |
This page may be a little lengthy; I included descriptions in a effort to help clarify what is in each volume, comments on format are welcome. Please send them to bmarti@slotmachineclub.com
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Loose Change Magazine |
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Features |
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Fall |
1977 |
COVER Here it is - the missing page of Juke Box Saturday Night – the WURLITZER MODEL 950! This juke box was manufactured in 1942 at the beginning of World War II. Most people consider it the most beautiful jukebox ever designed. It certainly was one of the more elaborate.
Running out of plastic, metals and other material, plus converting to the war effort cut the production number to 3,497. Some of the parts such as the cashbox, coin chutes and the tone arm holder were made of wood.
There are less than a hundred of the MODEL 950 machines left in existence, and every collector’s desire is to own one.
The MODEL 950 on our front cover was photographed in the lovely Greenwood Restaurant in Los Angeles. From the pleased look on the face of the fellow at the bar, it seems that the machine is as popular today as it was thirty five years ago.
This machine was completely restored by the Antique Juke Box Company of Los Angeles and is now owned by the prominent Van Nuys, California collector, Steve Hendrickson. FEATURES The Jukebox The early history of these handcrafted machines signals the end of an era. Arcade Machines Today An exclusive interview with one of foremost experts in the field gives some insight on the past, present and future. Is This A Record On Nickel Play? Lamm's Drug Store kept records on a real producer...$65,000 worth! Are Slots For Tots So Bad? Before you hide away your machines from the kids, check out what this young lady has to say about the subject. You Can Refinish Your Own Slot Case A step-by-step procedure that can transform an ugly mess into a true display piece that you can be proud of. Look Before You Leap So you want to jump headlong into the hobby of collecting coin operated machines? Great - but heed the advice of someone who has been down this road before. The Famous Slot Machines It started with the Liberty Bell over eighty years ago - and just look what happened. The SEEBURG MODEL "A" Long before Henry Ford introduced his famous four- banger, a Chicago piano manufacturer took the world by storm with their version. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Editor’s Notes The editor introduces you to your new magazine. Product Review A “hands-on” evaluation of some new products of interest to collectors and enthusiasts of coin operated machines. REGINA MUSIC BOX DECALS: Manufactured exclusively for and sold by Marvin Yagoda, 28585 S. Harwich Drive, Farmington Hills, Michigan 48018, $6.00 each including postage. - Normally, a sticker or decal is just that - just a sticker or decal. This one is different. Produced on 3-M Scatchcal® film in metallic goldlike pigment, it is missing the usual varnish cover over the normal decal has. Instead, when applied to the surface, each letter becomes a complete transfer as though it were individually placed or painted into position. The sticker comes protected with a waxed protective cover and explicit instructions for application. The sticker is reportedly an exact replica and was made from the original. VICTORIAN FLOOR MACHINE POSTER: Printed exclusively for and sold by Bueschel Sales Co., 414 N. Prospect manor, Mt. Prospect, Illinois 60056, $4.95 each including postage. - This poster measures 23" x 29" and shows a total of 64 antique items. The poster is a reproduction of a flyer that Bernard Sicking had printed in May of 1924 to sell off his entire stock of Victorian floor machines. VICTORY GLASS PANELS: Manufactured exclusively for and sold by the Antique Juke Box Co., 2363 East Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90021. - During the war years (1942-1945) Wurlitzer produced the Victory Glass cabinet. The war effort prevented the company from using plastic in the jukeboxes and so various glass panels were substituted. The Antique Juke Box Company has succeeded in reproducing these glass panels so that they are virtually indistinguishable from the original glass. Mailbox The Bookshelf An aid to stocking your reference library. SLOT MACHINES - A PICTORIAL REVIEW by David Christensen; The Vestal Press, P.O. Box 97, Vestal, New York 13850, 123 pp.; $10.95 - In order to assist collectors, antique buffs and law enforcement agencies to date and identify slot machines, the Vestal Press has reprinted an expanded edition of the older saddle stitched version by the same title. The author and artist have recreated fifty of the most famous slot machines in exquisite pen and ink drawings of superb quality. Further enhanced by the professional presswork of Vestal Press, there is no excuse for anyone the least bit interested in slot machines not to have a copy. THE FACTS OF SLOTS by Walter I. Nolan, Gambler's Book Club, Box 4115, Las Vegas, Nevada 89106; 48 pp.; $1.00 - For such a small booklet, both in size (4 1/8" x 6 7/8") and price , there is a wealth of interesting information in The Facts of Slots. The title is somewhat misleading, since one would expect such a title to be a sensational exposure of how the villain operator stands on either the win or lose button, or how the machine can be tightened by turning a simple screw. Indeed the booklet does point out the foolishness of these myths; but more important, the entire history of the slot machine starting with Charles Fey in 1985 is presented in concise and fascinating format. JUKE BOX SATURDAY NIGHT, by John Krivine, Chartwell Books Inc., A Division of Book Sales Inc., 110 Enterprise Avenue, Secaucus, New Jersey 07094, 160pp., $12.05. Supplied to Loose Change by West Coast Distributor: The Antique Jukebox Co., 2363 E. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, Calif. 90021. - Here is a book that will be a true asset to anyone's library. It is an impressive 9 7/8 x 14 inches in size and the typography, printing and binding are of top quality. John Krivine, who is a collector himself, has presented an amazing piece of folk history. Classified Advertising |
| January | 1978 |
COVER
FEATURES Those Wonderful Watlings
Those Fantastic Auctions
The Anatomy of a Bug
A Brief History of the Pinball Machine
The World's Largest Flea Market?
The Watling Treasury & Rol-A-Top
We Turn Loose Change Loose
Good Guy or Outlaw?
The Kruse Auction
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Editor's Notes
Mailbox
The Bookshelf
Product Review
Classified Advertising
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February |
1978 |
COVER Smack! That’s no way to treat an antique marvel, but it happened for years. The machine under the hammer is one of the many Mills “Hightops” of the late forties and early fifties, and it looks like the Mills GOLDEN FALLS at the left will get next.
The picture is from the early fifties, soon after the passage of the Johnson Act and the national sweep against slots. Long after the fact, the sweep is still going on in states that have yet to recognize the aesthetics of the slot machine. Enlightened legislative bodies in half a dozen or more states have recognized the right of individuals to own and treasure slot machines in the privacy of their home. But only a few to date. In time the right of ownership will probably be national, but for now, if you are into mechanical and coin –operated gambling machines, you’ better live in a progressive state, or hide your interest under your hat. Other wise smack! FEATURES It's Time The Laws Were Changed This is a rerun of a classic article. We redesigned the format so you can be proud to show it to your legislators. It should bring tears to your eyes if you care anything at all about slot machines. Are Your Clicks In Order? Is your slot machine clicking, clacking, pinging or popping? If it clanks out of sync with the clunks, this one will tell you how to make it hum with the clicks and the beat! If You Can’t See It, It’s Not Illegal? An Indiana attorney is disturbed about his state’s laws that deal with pinball machines. The Music Box Collectors of mechanical devices sometimes find old music boxes and wonder where they all came from. They usually look foreign. This well written piece tells when, where and why and what became of the main company that built them. This One Is Loaded The bases are loaded, the batter has three fouls and two strikes…do you play another nickel? Everyone at the bar is watching. Can you guess what the game is played on? Allow Me To Introduce You To My "Master" Masters used to buy the slaves; this slave bought his “Master” Odd? Scoring Big And Resetting You’ve just scored big on your pinball and look up at the back glass. Nothing! What happened? Now you can fix it. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Product Review Editor’s Notes Mailbox The Diagnostic Clinic This is a new monthly column that will award prizes to players. The Inside Story This will be a short pictorial series with emphasis on the “insides” The Book Shelf Classified Advertising |
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March |
1978 |
COVER Chomp, chomp, smack, chomp – this is the sound of people the work over when a penny or nickel is invested in one of the millions of small vending machines, commonly called gumball machines, that populate the world. Many impressive collections of larger and more sophisticated collections have been stared with a simple common gumball machine. And many collectors of coin operated devices find that children consider the gumball machine the most important piece of the collection.
If you are one of the few enthusiasts of coin-operated machines who have no machines at all, consider a gumball machine; they are a very inexpensive (providing that they are a common variety) and will serve as a stepping stone to larger and more expensive machines.
If you really want to make the little folks in your family happy, buy them a low cost model for their other room and keep the key yourself. Then, when they are good, reward them with a penny or two and watch the expression on their faces. If you are worried about their teeth forget it; gumballs come in the sugarless variety a well as the traditionally sweetened variety.
The machine picture is a 1941 vintage VICTOR with adjustable vending wheel. It will handle gumballs, hard candy, nuts and other hard surfaced confectioneries. VICTOR started making machines in 1937 and is still in business today in the Chicago area. Their machines are marketed under the TOPPER name. FEATURES Gumballs Peanuts, Etc. When this man bought his first gumball machine he never dreamed it would change his life some much; today he has over 300 and is still collecting. Why Collect Jukeboxes A busy fellow says he can always create time for jukeboxes. One look at a few of his favorites shows why. The Unique Antiques Auction This event was the kickoff for a ten day chain of events that will be long remembered by collectors from all over the world. It Was A Great Time The Gilgoffs hosted a between-the-auctions party. You were invited! The Victorian Casino Antiques Auction Roy Arrington’s 5th auction was the biggest ever and wound up the most unforgettable ten day chain of event ins the history of coin-op collecting. Is This Really America? Norby got one heck of a surprise for Christmas. Before it was all over, he was wondering if he was really living in America. To this day he isn’t sure. Over forty antique slot machines were confiscated! Pinballs at the Unique Antiques Auction Will New York Go Legal? One man in New York began to see the fruits of his efforts. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Diagnostic Clinic This is the second installment of our new prize winning column. Have you sent your answers for the first machine? The Book shelf There are some interesting books available. One is brand new! Product Review A “hand-on” evaluation of some new products of interest to collectors and enthusiasts of coin operated machines. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1978 |
COVER This is a slot machine. You bet! It has con slots (four people could play at one time), a revolving reel and jackpots which paid automatically. Yes, it certainly was a slot machine.
You are looking at a MECCA revolving game. It was equipped with a twelve hour clock spring motor and twelve pans which collected coins for payment of jackpots. It stood five feet tall and weighed thirty five ponds.
If you collect slot machines, you really should have at least one of these. There is only one problem – none are known to exist today! FEATURES What is A Slot Machine? When most folks think of a slot machine, they think of three reels and chrome; their beginning was almost 100 years ago. Here’s how it started. The Legend of the Triple IMP Woodsmen believe in Paul Bunyan, and sailors tell tales of sea serpents. Now we have this exciting legend for slot buffs! What Are They Worth? For the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of folks who have asked, “What is it worth?” this will come as a welcome surprise: It’s a 5-point rating system for machines and the announcement of a coming price guide. Gumballing Our gumball man gives us an insight in “gumballing.” We're Off To See The Wizard For the pinball people, here’s the Bally Super Shooter story with a complete listing of the finalists. Tomorrow Is Here For Jukebox Tubes By the way, what ever happened to electron tubes? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Editor's Notes Reno used to be a close-knit little city. The editor takes another look. Mailbox The Diagnostic Clinic Hey wake up out there is anyone interested in prizes? Bookshelf Another catalog reprint and an oldie-but-goodie on player pianos you may not have heard about. Inside Story The second in a series: The Bally Reliance Dice Game. Product Review Slot Machine Reel Strips manufactured exclusively for and sold by D.B. Evans. Classifieds |
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May |
1978 |
COVER Bingo! This exclamation is often shouted by winners of this popular pastime. The young man on the cover certainly appears to be a winner. This proud owner of two BINGO pinball machines has been able to purchase his 1932 dodge after only 114, 500 penny plays on his two counter top bagatelle games. These two machines represent the beginning of an exciting era in the history of coin operated amusement. For these BINGO coin operated bagatelle games were the first counter top pinball machines. Soon to follow were BAFFLE BALL and BALLY-HOO by D. Gottlieb and the Bally company, now world famous manufacturers of pinball machines.
This cover photograph, which brings together two of the rare BINGO machines, was made possible through the cooperation of several very kind and helpful people. Rick Turner, the young man featured on the cover, is a graduating senior and past president of the Electronic and Pinball at Torrance (California) High School. He has been actively interested and involved in pinball machines for a period of four years. He is currently putting his knowledge to work as an amusement machine repair man in the Palos Verdes, California area. He plans to attend a California State University and major in Business.
The BINGO machine resting against the car is owned by H. L. of Seal Beach. This machine was loaned to the author for an extended period of time only shortly after it was acquired at the Los Angeles Unique Antique Auction. (Parting with a newly acquired addition is a difficult thing to ask of any collector!) At the time of the loan it was the only machine available, and its loan and permission to use it on the cover is greatly appreciated. The other machine, under Rick’s arm, was acquired by the author only a few weeks prior to the photo session for the cover.
The automobile was graciously provided by Don Williams, owner of Automotive Classics in Santa Monica (soon moving to Buena Park). This classic car was illustrated in the March 1978 issue of Old Car Illustrated and for good reason! There were only 4,422 of this DK series made by Dodge in 1932. This straight-eight cylinder, 90 horsepower model sold for $1,145 new. Its condition is probably better now than it was then. The exterior, as can be seen, has been masterfully restored, while the interior, can you believe, is original and in beautiful condition. The selling price now? $17,000 - a mere 1,700,000 penny plays of BINGO! FEATURES Life Is Just A Game Of Bagatelle So, you really thought pinballs started with BAGATELLE? Not so, according to our pinball man. He starts this interesting and factual article about 2,000 years ago! Who Are Those Odd Looking Fellows? You’ve seen them; your friends have seen them; and most of us ignore them. Why? Just because they wear odd looking clothes? Let’ take a closer look at these “foreigners” and see if they really are strangers. The Biggest Little City Is Growing Up Reno, Nevada didn’t change much between 1935 and 1970. But all of a sudden new casinos are sprouting like weeds all over the city. There is a reason, but most Reno residents refuse to accept this reason. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf Cartoon books or encyclopedias – we review them all. Product Review A “hands-on” subjective evaluation of some new products of interest to collectors and enthusiast of coin operated machines. Classified Advertising |
| June | 1978 |
COVER
FEATURES A Tribute to Yesterday
The Canning Americana Auction
The Orchestrion
The A-1 Supply Company
The Slot Machines of San Juan
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Editor's Notes
Mailbox
Product Review
Bookshelf
Classified Advertising
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| July |
1978 |
COVER
FEATURES The Vest Pocket Story
Investing In Slot Machines
Guess What Jack And Bill Did?
The Mystery Of The Missing Pages
The Antique Gambler
Build This Attractive Slot Machine Stand
Keep'em Playing
DEPARTMENTS Newsbriefs
Mailbox
Bookshelf
Product Review
Classified Advertising
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| August | 1978 |
COVER
FEATURES A Collector To Remember
Build this Attractive Slot Machine Stand
Harrah's Hotels
The Piano Roll Blues
Harrah's - The Organization And The Man
Southern California Antique Show
Harrah's Take The Risk Out Of Gambling
The Time Machine
Pinball - America's Fastest Growing Craze
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
Editor's Notes
The Inside Story
The Bookshelf
Classified Advertising
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September |
1978 |
COVER
FEATURES Those Fascinating Bits of Brass
Tools of the Trade
The Letter
The Bonaventure Auction
From A Pinball Point of View: The Auction
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
Bookshelf
The Legal Register
Classified Advertising
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October |
1978 |
COVER
FEATURES The Columbus Story
The Caille MULTI-BELL 7-WAY
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Bookshelf Mailbox
The Legal Register
Classified Advertising
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November |
1978 |
COVER Isn’t it lovely? It’s the first three reel slot machine, the Fey LIBERTY BELL.
This masterpiece can be seen in Reno, Nevada at the Liberty Belle Saloon and Restaurant which is owned and operated by Marshall and Franklin Fey, grandsons of the inventor Charles Fey.
You are looking at the finest and most authentic color photograph ever taken of this machine. It was photographed on the bar of the Liberty Belle in February 1978. A four second exposure was made with a 4” X 5” Crown Graphic on daylight Ektachchrome film. The resulting transparency was then color corrected to eliminate transient color and separated on a HCM-D300 laser scanner to obtain printing negatives. Color printing was performed on a 25” Heidelberg, and ink density was controlled with digital densitometer equipment. FEATURES Charles Fey: The Slot Machine Man Charles Fey was the inventor of the first three reel payout slot machine as we know it today. Many of us have heard the story of the man and his machine at least once. But here is a fresh new approach to this remarkable man written by his great granddaughter. The Story of the D. Gottlieb Company In 1919 David Gottlieb was selling punchboards in the Texas oil fields. Today his company survives as one of the largest producers in the world of pinball games. Here is a concise history of the D. Gottlieb Company and the amusements pinballs that have made the name world famous. A Collector’s Guide to Automatic Music Have you consider an automatic coin operated machine that plays a real violin, or perhaps two, for your collection? How about an orchestrion? Over the years. Many fascinating automatic musical instruments have been built and nearly forgotten; but not by the author of this exacting guide. This truly historic class of instruments is presented in an interesting and informative manner sure to kindle your interest. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Bookshelf
Mailbox Editor’s Notes Auction season seems to be here. They are not limited to the well to do. Under discussion are a few things you may not have considered about these events. They are for you, so why not attend? The Legal Register What will you do if the police come take away you collection? One of the first things you might consider is turning to this listing of attorneys who are fellow collectors and enthusiast; they care what happens to your collection. Product Review There are many new “goodies” on the market, and they’re just in time for Christmas. Have you been a good boy or girl this year? REPLICA METAL PLAQUES: Automatic Music Roll Company, P.O. Box 3104, Seattle, Washington 98114, 16 pp., $3.00 each, both for $6.00 or any combination of ten for $25.00 postpaid. - Here are a couple of items just for fun. Some years back, however, these signs are serious necessities. TAJ MAHAL IN CONCERT, A RECORDING: AIG-1 Stereo, American International Galleries, Inc., 1802 Kettering Street, Irvine, California 92714, $7.95 postpaid. - For those of you who just came in, the Taj Majal is the largest and most ornate automatic pipe organ which survives today. The organ, which is on permanent display at the Irvine, California showroom of American International Galleries, is absolutely magnificent; it measures 26' wide by 20' high and other sound producing components. Its construction, began in 1924, took dozens of craftsmen two years to complete. METAL AWARD PLAT FRONT: The Antique Gambler, 500 South Edison, Reno, Nevada 89502, $22.00 postpaid. - The slot machine collecting hobby is growing with leaps and bounds! This is easily recognized when major companies start re-manufacturing expensive to-make items like this metal award plate front. Classified Advertising
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| December | 1978 |
COVER
FEATURES It Could Have Been A Lemon!
An Interview At The Money Tree
Great Discoveries
The Automatic Violin Player
Greed Breeds Profit
DEPARTMENTS New Briefs
Mailbox
Editor's Notes
Bookshelf
Classified Advertising
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January |
1979 |
COVER Slot change person Bill Richmond surveys the action in the second floor Roaring Camp Room at Harold’s Club in downtown Reno. A collection of 1,000 guns and weapons, valued at nearly $1 million, provides a unique backdrop for slot patrons. The collection will be augmented by a turn of the century memorabilia and museum display beginning February 1, 1979 when Harold’s’ new four story addition opens to the public. Harold's currently has 800 slot machines on two floors of gaming. Another 600 slots will be ready for play inside the new addition, which is located alongside the famous Reno arch. FEATURES Behind The Scenes Of Harold's Club To the occasional visitor, a gambling casino operates automatically, and the money just rolls in. For an exact answer to this assumption, we went to Harold’s Club, one of Nevada’s oldest casinos. The Disneyland Auction This was an auction to remember. It was a nice mix of various machines. Guinness Sets Its Own Record: Inaccuracy They really blew it. Our veteran story teller tells how A Restoration Primer This excerpt from a new book has good tips for both case and mechanism restoration. The Reno Auction This was the largest auction of its type ever offered. The prices tended to be erratic. Was it too large? A Visit With Donna and John Hermann The Hermann collection is choice. Why? Because it consists of mostly Caille Uprights and Polk figures. This interview is a glowing account about two people who have been in the collecting game for a long time. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs The Legal Register Need some legal advice relative to your collection? This list of attorneys is fellow collectors and enthusiasts; they care about what happens to your collection. Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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February |
1979 |
COVER Our cover girl this month is child model actress Brooke Shields.
She is well known among movie goers today. But, of course, she hasn’t always been well known. That’s when I first became aware of her – several years ago; she had just celebrated her ninth birthday.
At the time we were engaged in the printing of a press book (movie jargon for “sales brochure”) for an almost unknown film called “Communion”. Brooke played a relatively small but none the less important part. Part of my involvement was to attend a special screening in order to familiarize myself with the story.
I have long since forgotten most of the other actresses and actors in ”Communion”. But I never forgot Brooke’s memorable performance. And then I saw “Pretty Baby” which played nationwide about a year ago; it was, in my opinion, a distasteful subject – but Brooke Shields was outstanding. And this is why she is our cover girl this month because I know she ill popularize pinball beyond belief. – Daniel mead FEATURES The Making of “Tilt” “Tilt” must have something to do with pinball machines – right? Well, yes – but not quite. “Tilt” is actress Brooke Shields’ name in this exciting new motion picture about pinball which will be released this year about Easter. Here is a peek preview, and it tells how “Tilt” got her name. His Hobby Became His Business Roy Arrington: To most collectors this means an auction of extraordinary glitter. Here is Roy’s story – a hobby which turned into a business. Short Changed? Did you ever wonder why some award cards on earlier slot machines were wishy-washy about their payoff? This thought-provoking author has wondered about it for a long time. Here is the reason you only got 9 when you expected 11. Or 10 when you thought you would only get 9, or… well, you better read this one for yourself! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month Steve Alpert feels that anything said about amusement machines is not complete unless it includes data about the token it used. His new column looks like it will be an important asset for slot machine collectors. Editor’s Notes Do you have an antique slot machine that needs work? Did you call our office to find out if there was someone in your area? Too Bad. If they were advertising their service, they would make more money and your machine would be working. What a head-in-the-sand approach to business! The Legal Register Need some legal advice about collecting antique slot machines or old gambling items. Here is a list of qualified attorneys ready to help you. Classified Advertising |
| March | 1979 |
Not sure if this edition of the Loose Change was assembled incorrectly or if it is only my edition. The magazine is missing many pages and has duplications of many others - very interesting magazine.
FEATURES Saga of the Snake - Robert N. Geddes
More on the "Odd Fellows" - Dave Evans
Beginner's Luck - by Tony Angellotti
I Took The Last Tour Of The Wurlitzer Factory - Johnny Velchoff
Moving? Don't Leave Anything Behind! - Steve Alpert DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month - Steve Alpert
Editor's Notes |
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April |
1979 |
COVER SEEBURG STYLE G ORCHESTRION was manufactured by J.P. Seeburg Piano Company of Chicago FEATURES The Ultimate Coin Operated Machine Dave Bowers claims that the orchestrion is the ultimate coin operated machine. Here’s why: for 5¢ (usually!) you hear, and sometimes see, what amounts to a five, six or seven piece orchestra play for at least a minute! Does this beat six or eight seconds worth of excitement on a slot machine? Or the playing of a record on a jukebox? Victorian Casino Antiques Auction Only a Victorian Casino Antiques auction could have all the slots banned the day before the auction and still have a wonderful selection of other items left to occupy bidder for two days. The Slot Machine Ban Roy Arrington’s auction met with a “misunderstanding” between the Nevada Gaming Control Board, Frontier Hotel and Roy Arrington – so announced auctioneer Donald Mudd. Why? What was the misunderstanding? Here are the facts. Ignore the rumors you may have heard. My First Coin Machine Auction One of our readers finally scraped up enough time, money and courage to attend what has been termed “the most super event of the year.” Although he went home disappointed and empty-handed, he went home with one thought in mind, “I can’t wait until next time!” DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month This month’s token has a built-in spinner for games without its machine. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1979 |
COVER Tom and Caryn Cantell often sit and enjoy their beautifully restored WURLITZER MODEL 1080 jukebox. This instrument was built in 1947, and was intended for more conservative locations, since it was not as dazzling as the MODEL 1015. A total of 7,604 were shipped. It has basically the same mechanism as the MODEL 1015.
Tom thinks there are probably about 3,000 MODEL 1080 Wurlitzer’s still in existence somewhere – probably stashed in warehouses, old barns and, perhaps, in the backs of old garages. How many have you seen lately?
Tom and Caryn own The Antique Juke Box Company of Los Angeles. Caryn helps about three days a week in juke box business as receptionist and does miscellaneous clerical work. FEATURES The Antique Juke Box Story Tom Cantella, Creator and owner of The Antique Juke Box Company, claims he’s had a good record of flops. He even keeps one of them as a souvenir and reminder of the past. Tom is the creator and owner of The Antique Juke Box Company, the nations’ largest jukebox restoration facility. Here’s how it all happened. Bordello Body Painters A University of Nevada Journalism student went our on assignment he’ll never forget. Signs Gamblers Read Billboard leading into the nation’s gambling cities whet any appetite, from bingo and food to slot machines and a bucket of blood. Going Legal Illinois is legal – that is a fact. But now what? What are it implications to the collectors and dealers? Here are some predictions. Heroes of Rock ’n Roll The most expensive television rock ‘n roll production had its beginnings at the Antique Juke Box Company. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month The Manila had different tokens for first and second prize. What happened to the third prize – was there one? Editor’s Notes Bookshelf The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. Product Review Classified Advertising |
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June |
1979 |
COVER If you are a new comer to the antique slot machine collecting hobby, you may not have seen a JENNINGS LITTLE DUKE. But if you have been the hobby a long time, you are probably generally confused about the different styles and models which you have seen.
Most collectors agree that there were five basic models. Historian Richard Bueschel claims were are four pre-summer of 1933 and at least eight improved post summer o f1933 models.
At any rate, the one shown here was manufactured after 1933 and is one of the improved models with the large coin head. It belongs to Arthur Newman, a Southern California collector. FEATURES THE LITTLE DUKE The Jennings LITTLE DUKE machine was fascinating to players in 1932 when it was introduced. And today collectors are fascinated by its different look. Strangely enough, none of the other slot machine manufacturers ever copied it. Here is an in-depth look at this interesting slot. Me ‘n My Duke Here is a fellow who prizes his LITTLE DUKE more than any other slot machine. He tells why in this interesting look at this most interesting slot machine. The Virginia & Truckee Rolls Again Although a little off-beat for Loose Change, this revival of America’s most famous short line railroad is bound to catch the interest of anyone with an appreciation of mechanical “things.” Going Legal Here is the rest of last month’s article by the same name. The proofreader goofed. But we’ll admit our mistake and give you the rest this issue. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month So you thought Bull Durham was a brand of tobacco? Not to token and slot machine collectors! Editor’s Notes Product Review The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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July |
1979 |
COVER Patents are not considered racy reading due to legal jargon and constant reference to the sometimes hard to follow patent drawings. In fact, the mechanically inclined person can usually get more out of the study of the drawings than from the words themselves.
The patent used for the front cover of this month’s cover is from 1893. It is extremely interesting since it describes a machine which paid various amounts of coins depending upon which symbol the wheel came to rest. FEATURES Patents and the Early Slot Machines This provocative article raises some question about the generally assumed status of the Fey Liberty Bell. The GOLIATH DISCOPHONE This historical article about an early juke box comes from one of our readers in Belgium. How Many Bell Machines? Have you ever wondered how many bell style machines were offered by their manufacturers? Here is a list of several hundred! Buying Slot Machines By Mail This latest article by Dave Evans offers humor and wit as well as the meaning of terms used by “mail salesmen”. It’s a dandy! Restoration of a WURLITZER 1100 Although not technical in nature, this article offers some good tips. What ever Happened To… Remember all those “Harolds Club or Bust” signs you used to see? What ever happened to… MILLS DICE MACHINE The MILLS DICE MACHINE probably more closely simulated a craps game than any other machine ever built. But it disappeared soon after its introduction. The one in this article is almost brand new! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Token of the Month Product Review The Legal Register Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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August |
1979 |
COVER “Then, suddenly and without a moment’s warning, Kepplinger was seized, gagged, and held hard and fast. The great master cheat was searched and upon him was discovered the most ingenious holdout ever devised.” – from John Maskelyne’s A Complete Revelation of the Secrets of Cheating at Games of Chance an Skill.
You are probably wondering what happened to Kepplinger. Nothing! A compact was entered into whereby Kepplinger agreed to make a similar instrument for each of his captors, and once again the temporary and short lived discord gave place to harmony and content. For you see, his captors were also sharps – they did what they considered would serve their own interests best! FEATURES Cheating Is Not Allowed Here Once upon a time, not so long ago, card sharps and other “sporting gentlemen” practiced their professions on the railroads and river boats of America. For many reasons they have disappeared, but they have left behind an amazing array of gadgetry designed to tip the odds of the game to their favor. One man’s astounding collection of “gaffed” gaming items is the basis for this informative article. BUCKLEY’S TRACK ODDS Here is another informative and amusing machine usually passed by as “uncollectable” by the advanced slot machine collector and enthusiast. Perhaps there will be a “run” on these fun-to-play console machines after this article becomes public knowledge! The Americana Auction Joe and Diane Piersanti staged a big auction with lots of nice things in a lovely setting; but few attended. Why? Those who did walked away with some nice merchandise because the price was right. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Token of the Month For his final contribution, Steve discusses the Buckley amusement machine. It fits right in with the Buckley Track Odds article. Mailbox The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. The Bookshelf This month’s book is the first with color pictures of machines. Also included are black and white pictures – loads of them! Classified Advertising |
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September |
1979 |
COVER At first glance it looks little like a Ben Hur. But it isn’t. We don’t know exactly what it is and neither does the owner and feature story author. FEATURES A Rare Mystery This collector wanted to find out more about this machine; it didn’t work with American coins! In the process he became a Sam Spade, Hardy Boy, Charlie Chan, James Bond and Sherlock Holmes all wrapped up in one. It’s an amazing story and came to a happy ending, but the beginnings of the machine still remain a rare mystery. Auction Protection The author of this informative review has been an antique dealer for the past fifteen years and has worked in the “pit” for ten. He has also taught several adult courses for an Iowa area college, including “Basic and Advanced Antiques, Reproductions and How to Protest Yourself at Auctions.” This article is a result of these years of first hand experience. Although it is slanted toward coin machines, the data would apply to any auction. Southern California Advertising Show Don and Sharron Henry’s eighth annual advertising show had a wide variety y of goodies for the antique coin machine collector. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes Haven’t heard much from the editor lately, have you? He’s been up to his neck with the Fun Fair. Here are some pre-Fair remarks about the event. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. The Bookshelf Here are a couple of little books big on information for the collector of old cheating apparatus. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1979 |
COVER How many PACE KITTYs have you seen? It is estimated there were only a thousand of these unique machines originally produced and that there are probably no more than thirty or forty still in existence today.
There are only two know in Southern California –one of them shown here. It has been completely restored in its original colors and is reproduced here with all its features showing: the KITTY on the first reel; the name cast on top of the upper front casting; the kitty itself; and the indicator.
If you are planning on buying one of these machines, better be sure you get one with all the kitty operating mechanism intact- there are less kitty operating mechanisms in existence than KITTYs themselves! FEATURES The PACE KITTY Possible one of the most rare three-reel slot machines, the Pace Kitty had a novel idea for it’s day – a mini jackpot Identifying Slot Machines Here is a pictorial review of some of the more common machines. It’s intended for the new comer to the hobby. Gordon Pace’s Coin Machine Auction Here are the auction results: prices, conditions and general comments. “Legal States” For Slot Machine Collectors What are legal states for slot machine collectors? There is no single answer, because all states are different. Here is the latest as we know it. A Quick History of Harold’s Club Harold’s Club gave this to us some time ago. It is short and to the point. Patents, Early Slots and Gin Marshall Fey, grandson of the slot pioneer Charles Fey, offers a rebuttal to a pervious Loose Change article. Nickel Interlude One of our readers sent this in some time ago without his name. It’s nice. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The editor has a message for newcomers, buyers and exhibitors at the Fun Fair. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems Product Review Remember that wheelbarrow full of tokens at the recent A Auction? Her they are! The Bookshelf Veteran slot collector reports on the new Owner’s Guide. More books on cheating are reviewed. Classified Advertising |
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November |
1979 |
COVER Recent Loose Change Fun Fair held in Los Angeles. FEATURES Fun Fair Fun Fair Schedule of Events Fun Fair List of Exhibitors The 1979 Loose Change Fun Fair DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1979 |
COVER Groetchen Trade Stimulator makes a great Christmas gift. FEATURES Collecting Trade Stimulators Many seasoned slot machine collectors consider trade stimulators an insignificant part of the coin machine hobby. But for many, the “little machines” are the only slot-like machines available at an affordable price. And their small size makes them ideal for small display areas such as the kitchen counter or coffee table. This pictorial review will give the reader a good idea of the vast array of types and styles of trade stimulators which have appeared over the years. Loose Change Fun Fair Here’s a concise, one page rundown on this memorable event written by one of the exhibitors. Loose Change Grading Specification To many of our newer readers, the Official Loose Change Grading System is as foreign as Sanskrit, and to other it is part of their everyday vocabulary. The Grading Specification, the backbone of the Grading System was generated nearly two years ago. It is presented here in its revised state for both payout type slot machines and for trade stimulators. Our Collection One of our readers submitted this story sometime ago, complete with black and white photographs. It’s interesting. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf Product Review Our “hands on” inspection included several items: decals, jukebox plastic and gambling machine logo watches. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Can they be of assistance to you? Classified Advertising |
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January |
1980 |
COVER Hey, here’s a slot machine that promises to give you your money back if you go ten plays without a pay!
But wait a minute, feature story writer Bob Geddes says it’s a cheater! And what’s more he can prove it – with pictures and text. Not only that, he presents the beginning of a mathematical analysis which will lead to surprising conclusions. FEATURES The MILLS FUTURITY The Mills Futurity was the only factory designed slot machine intended to cheat the player. By means of a sophisticated gear changing mechanism the odds varied considerably. This in depth article is the most complete yet. Don’t You Dare Drill That Lock Did you eve get a machine with no key? Here is the answer to that frustrating problem for one type of machine, the Watling front vender. Ten Stop Reels What seemed a good idea for the operator; finally gave way to twenty stop reels. This discussion shows some advantages and disadvantages. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf Several new publications of interest to machine enthusiasts and those interested in gambling. Product Review Some low cost, useful items are featured this month. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to help you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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February |
1980 |
COVER The Golden Nugget Gambling Hall Casino in Downtown Las Vegas. FEATURES Why do People Gamble? This oversimplified and entertaining article explores some of the people who gamble and contains a number of enjoyable stories relating to the author’s self –admitted misspent youth. Also included are the author’s definition of a player, a gamble and a loser. The Golden Nugget When the Golden Nugget was built in 1946, it was the largest casino in the world, but its builder also took a step back in time and recreated the best of the old west. The Greed Of the Old-Time Operators This expose shows still another way some operators purposely “cheated” their players The Lift of a Deck of Cards Have you ever wondered how long a deck of cards could last in casino play? Here’s the answer from one of the oldest casinos in the country. Meet Lady Luck She’ll make you rich; she’ll make you poor; but she will never bore you; her name is Lady Luck. This article explains some of the games she plays. DEPARTMENTS News briefs Mailbox Bookshelf Here are several new books of interest to coin machine and gambling enthusiasts. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1980 |
COVER This beautiful WATLING BIRD OF PARADISE ROL-A-TOP has all the options. FEATURES The WATLING ROL-A-TOP and TREASURY The WATLING ROL-A-TOP and TREASURY slot machines rank high on collectors’ lists of “must have” machines. This article explores these eye-catching machines, the various models and what makes some more rare than others. Harold’s Club – Nevada’s Oldest Casino Harold’s Club of Reno, Nevada celebrated its 45th anniversary last month. Here is a quick history with some interesting pictures. An Unusual Task A quick sketch concerning mathematics, ten stop reels and the psychology behind the design of reel strips makes this article “must” reading. Law Making When a Michigan collector decided to do something about his state’s laws, he had no idea that it would lead him to the governor’s side to witness the legalization of antique slot machines for collectors in his state. Spinning Wheels Few people know of Nevada’s laws concerning the manufacturing of gambling apparatus. But it has given the B.C. Willis Company an exclusive right for manufacturing roulette wheels. And the company isn’t even located in Nevada. DEPARTMENTS News briefs Mailbox Product Review Our “hands on” inspection includes several new and novel items. The Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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April |
1980 |
COVER
FEATURES
DEPARTMENTS
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May |
1980 |
COVER One of the things the makes this hobby fun is the constant discover of the “something different”. And one of the different aspects of this hobby are the seemingly endless parade of custom front sported by many of the older machines.
Such a front is this Bull Durham machine with self filling triple jackpots and working gold award token feature. Bill Durham was an early Los Angeles operator of slot machines. Because of his size, he was nicknamed “Bull”. Liking the nickname, it appeared on his machines as well as special tokens. He had several different conversion fronts, but this one, basically a Jennings OPERATORS BELL, is the most sophisticated know to exist.
The machine was restored by Bob Geddes of El Cajon, California for a San Diego collector. FEATURES Bull Durham When the jackpot craze caught on in the late 1920’s, the “conversion front” companies had a heyday. But for Bill Durham, an operator in the Los Angeles area, it was a way to customize his machines in addition to making more profits by means of offering more player appeal. In the process, another (seldom heard) “Bull Durham” product was born! How And Why To Buy At Auction Don P. Britt, no stranger to antique coin machine enthusiasts and collectors, has some advice for auction goers. The Greed Of the Old-Time Operators This expose shows still another way some operators purposely “cheated” their players DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf A new reprint catalog for gumball is dazzling. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Can they be of assistance to you? Classified Advertising |
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June |
1980 |
COVER Some blink colorful light, while others entice players with the clinking of their vintage mechanical reels. But on type of slot machine dominates attention with its mere, imposing oversized presence. It’s “Big Bertha”, a generic name applied to those slot machines that look like they swallowed an atomic powered vitamin pill.
There are a number of manufacturers of these attention commanding machines. But manufacturer is a poor term to use when, talking about Big Bertha. She is really hand built – from the ground up. Very few of her parts are actually mass produced.
This photograph was taken in Harold’s Club, Reno Nevada’s oldest casino. Slot shift supervisor Eric Vannoy shows publicist Shauna Lindsay the proper technique for getting the giant reels to spin on one of three Big Bertha machines in the popular club. The machines are well received by the public as many visitors say they want to drop just one dollar in – just to be able to tell those at home they played one of the worlds’ largest slot machines. The club was founded in1935 with two slot machines. FEATURES The Largest and the Smallest If we ask ourselves, as collectors, which slot machines were the largest and the smallest, the choice is fairly limited. But today the answer is fairly clear – especially if you’ve been out to Nevada. The Antique Gamble Auction Here was an auction enjoyed by everyone who attended. There were approximately five-hundred lots – half of which were slot machines! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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July |
1980 |
COVER Joel Gilgoff took a leave of absence from his job at IBM to see if people would buy reconditioned gaming devices. He and his wife Shelle stated G.A.M.E.S. FEATURES G.A.M.E.S. Some call it the “supermarket” for slot machines; others simply say it’s big. Whatever it is, it’s an amazing place with an equally amazing inventory. This article, the first of its type explores the background and inner working of G.A.M.E.S.-the largest store of its type anywhere in the country. Gordon Pace’s Father’s Day Auction What were you doing on the Father’s Day weekend? Many fathers (and non-fathers) were treating themselves to Gordon Pace’s auction in Wheeling Illinois. Prices seemed to generally hold up well despite the state of the economy. The Master Plan Nearly all collectors are familiar with the Master gumball machines. But the manufacturer of these popular machines still remains a mystery to most. Not only that, most collectors are not familiar with the other interesting and varied products manufactured under the Master name. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Can they be of assistance to you? Mailbox Product Review We hit the jackpot this month with lots of new and interesting products. Classified Advertising |
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August |
1980 |
COVER Dan Mead prepares a Mills HORSEHEAD BONUS for photographing. FEATURES Photography for Coin Machine Collectors How many times have you asked a fellow collector to send you a photo of a machine, only to find that the photo sent is so bad you can’t really tell whether the machine has all its parts? Sometimes bad pictures are purposely sent to disguise a bad machine; but often it’s simply a lack of photographic knowledge. This article shows how you can take breathtaking pictures of your own collection. It’s Showtime! A veteran show-exhibitor and show-attendee tells it how it really is. It doesn’t matter whether you are visiting or exhibiting at a coin machine show- there are right ways and wrong ways of doing things. Mills HORSE HEAD BONUS How does it work? Pretty good, actually! Although the Mills Bonus slot machine was twice introduced by its company, it never proved itself popular enough to be copied by any other slot machine manufacturer. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Mailbox Product Review More new “toys” for coin machine enthusiasts are subjects of our “hands on” inspection. The Bookshelf Eighteen new books of interest to slot machine collectors and enthusiasts! This in-depth review will allow you to better pick the ones you will need. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1980 |
COVER Wm. “Si” Redd, “The Slot Machine King” and is president of Nevada’s gigantic Sircoma – manufacturer of the Fortune video screen slot machines. FEATURES The Slot Machine King If you thought the days of mammoth slot machine manufacturing companies ended with men like John Watling, O.D. Jennings, Adolph Caille, and Herbert Mills, take note: this modern day “Citizen Kane” of the slot machine business is known in the business as “The Slot Machine King!” The story of how he got there-the fun and sad times- is all here, in an exclusive Loose Change interview. Auction Fever “Last call, going once, going twice, third and last call – Sold!” the auctioneer calls. Sound familiar? It should; it’s been a traditional way many collectors have expanded their collections – with good and bad luck. This factual, “straight in the face” report by a leader in the hobby of collecting tells how it is – good and bad! Decorating Your Fun Fair Booth Here’s a timely bit information for Loose Change Fun Fair exhibitors. For visitors to the Fun Fair, this article will tell who went to a lot of work to make their booth attractive to you. Le Scopitone de Paris A couple of veteran coin-op authors/collectors found something a little different – Scopitone-movie jukebox. It’s an exciting machine. The Loose Change Fun Fair A noted coin-op dealer explains why the Loose Change Fun Fair is a worthwhile event for visitors (and dealers). DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1980 |
COVER The Watling Derby horserace game was built in 1904 and is exceedingly rare. FEATURES The Watling Derby What if you asked a fellow coin-op collector where he got his latest antique slot machine and received an answer like, “From John Watling.” This is exactly where this month’s machine came from – John Watling. Sound interesting and exciting? It is! “Legal” States For Slot Machines This is our yearly roundup of the so called “legal” states for slot machines. Gambling Superstitions This lively report from a major Nevada casino tells how player think they pick winners. List of Fun Fair Exhibitors (Partial) Here’s your chance to do your homework before arriving at the Fun Fair. Simply note who sells what and where their booth will be; then make up your shopping lists. Keeping ‘em Honest Here’s a colorful bit of larceny – about those who cheat slot machines. Gold Leafing Your Slot Machine This professional tells you how- step-by-step – to gold leaf your favorite slot machine. The article is complete with copyright-free artwork for the designs on the side of the case. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Product Review We hit the jackpot this month! There are lots of “goodies” for collectors. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Bookshelf This month’s book has everything you’ve ever dreamed of collecting. Classified Advertising |
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November |
1980 |
COVER It’s the calm before the storm. Taken only minutes before opening on Sunday, October 26th, this photograph shows a portion of the Loose Change Pavilion at the Second annual 1980 Loose Change Fun Fair.
The special Loose change booth was built by the Antique Juke Box Company of Los Angeles, California, under the direction of Steve Crawford and featured built in electric lights.
This year’s Loose change Fun Fair was better than ever. For those fortunate to attend, either as an exhibitor or a visitor, it afforded a rare opportunity to spend several days of fun, buying, looking, selling, talking and fellowship with collectors fro all over the world. The hobby is big now – bigger than ever previously dreamed – and a yearly, internationally planned gathering such as the Loose Change Fun Fair is now the climax of the year for most collectors and enthusiasts. FEATURES The 1980 Loose Change Fun Fair The Second Annual 1980 Loose Change Fun Fair was a record breaker! If you weren’t able to attend, better check your calendar next year for about the same time – mid October. This issue, put together quickly. Shows some of the highlights of this memorable event – the world’s largest antique coin machine and advertising show! Enjoy! Caesars Tahoe It’s not often a casino the size of the new Caesars Tahoe opens. And no wonder – as you will see after looking over Lake Tahoe’s (California/Nevada) newest casino. Slot Machines in England Most stories about English slot machines center around the odd-looking cases surrounding American-built mechanisms. This one goes a little bit further. Their newest slot look similar to our arcade games DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1980 |
COVER No introduction is necessary for this classic slot machine – the Watling TREASURY. But this month’s feature article is not about slot machines or gambling. Instead it’s about the work that goes into making this forty-five year old classic and others like it, the beautiful show pieces they are.
This particular machine, painstakingly restored with genuine gold plated coins by Jim Davy, will be preserved forever in Slot Machines On Parade, just like over a hundred other which have had similar restoration.
This month’s timely discussion explains many of the methods which have been developed for the restoration of antique slot machines. It’s not just a here’s how it can be done article. And here’s the best part: you can probably do it yourself. FEATURES Prescriptions For Slot Machines The Newhall Pharmacy isn’t a normal pharmacy. Oh, they carry the usual pills and patent medicines and fill prescriptions ordered by physicians, but they have an unusual remedy for boredom, listlessness and apathy – slot machines! The pharmacy’s owner discusses various procedures of restoration and the advantages and disadvantages of the various techniques. For the newcomer, this discussion serves as an introduction to a fascinating pastime; for the professional, it will be a reminder that there is more than one way to restore a slot machine. Harold’s Club Gun Collection If you’re firearms fancier, you’ll just love Harold’s Club collection of rare and unusual guns. Approximately 600 pieces are currently on display with about 1,400 additional pieces being restored and made ready for proper display. The display is open 24-hours a day and it free! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Editor’s Notes The editor hasn’t written an editorial for about a year. This editorial, publisher Dan Mead’s last in the position of editor, has some important information for readers Loose Change magazine. Mailbox Bookshelf Several new books are reviewed. Both are hardcover and of very nice quality. Don’t pass these reviews by, especially if slot machines are your focal point! Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys (and fellow coin machine enthusiasts) ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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January |
1981 |
COVER Frank Harper is assistant services supervisor of the automobile collection at Harrah’s Club. Part of his job is to supervise the Pony Express Museum. The museum, started by W. Parker Lyon of Lyon Van and Storage, is now a Harrah’s Club attraction. Frank came to work at Harrah’s nineteen years age as a bartender. One of his duties was to work a stint in the auto collection. Because exhibits from the Pony Express Museum were displayed around the bar, Frank became interested in the Old West, and now he has his own collection of artifacts. The automobile Frank is stepping out of is a 1938 Type 57 Bugatti sedan. It is a beautiful vehicle, hand built before people began to worry about gas mileage. You might be able to buy one today for two to three hundred thousand dollars – if you were able to find one for sale! His left hand is resting on a 1902 Mills DUPLEX “Ten Way,” considered by many to be one of the most beautiful floor machines ever built. Two people could play at once, each of them betting on a color by depositing a nickel in one of the five colored coin slots. The game was a form of vertical roulette. Frank is smiling. Maybe he just won come nickels to buy gas for his car. FEATURES The Pony Express Rides Again Visiting Harrah’s Pony Express Museum is like taking a journey into the Old West. Frank Harper is your guide through this collection of antique slot machines and other Americana. Meanwhile, Back at the Backbar Read how Allan Smith came to own and refurbish a backbar that would make him feel like a frontier barkeeper. Gambling in the Round Roulette has a reputation for elegance and complexity, but the game is simpler than it looks. Bell and Lemons in 1980 Joel Gilfoff discusses last year’s good, bad and ugly in antique coin-op machine collecting. The Caille Brothers Make History Some things haven’t changed since the turn of the century. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The new editor introduces himself. The Bookshelf Several Books of interest to slot machine collectors are reviewed. Product Review Take a chance on this new clock and try to find our what time it is. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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February |
1981 |
COVER Gloria and Danny Dingillo live in Fountain Valley, a bedroom community south of Los Angeles California. From the outside, their hose looks like many other ins the neighborhood. However, once inside, visitors are transported back to the turn of the century. The Dingillos have built the flamboyant décor of their home around antique coin–operated machines, old fashioned furniture, vintage advertising, venerable pubic signs, old fangled household and commercial machines, traditionally mounted animal heads, classic cash registers and other paraphernalia from an earlier day. Because they like to share their experiences designing the inside of their house and collecting the things that fill it, slot machine enthusiasts have an opportunity to pick up a few pointers on how to make their own homes more reflect their interest. Not everything in the Dingillo’s house is as old as it seems. They believe in mixing truly old things with things that only look old. Their theory is that if objects look good together, it doesn’t matter whether a piece’s origin is a small shop in the backwoods of Vermont a hundred years ago, or a factory in Philadelphia last week. The Dingillos trust their own taste. The result is an atmosphere of controlled old time chaos that Gloria and Danny are constantly tinkering with. Their house is their hobby, and they never get tires of it. FEATURES Their House Is A Museum Gloria and Danny Dingillo have a home that is so different from most other homes that they give tours to the neighbors. The interior décor is built around their collection of antique coin-operated machines and other Americana. “Trust your own taste,” is what they tell other people who want to make their collection part of their everyday environment. Arcade Mechines Au Naturel The Buffalo Nickel Arcade at Knott's Berry Farm is not only the largest arcade of coin-operated amusement machines in the world, but some of the machines in it date from the turn of the century. All of them, whether mechanical or electronic, are there to be played, as they were meant to be. Almost A Wurlitzer Royce Westling builds jukeboxes that look like Wurlitzer 1015s, but sound like modern music systems. Westling designs his jukeboxes from scratch, without even a 1015 to guide him. FICTION Straight Gamblers and Crooked Cards Col. Carlisle got caught cheating abroad a Mississippi riverboat, but his troubles didn’t really begin till he made a deal with a banker who was looking for a man who robbed his bank. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes Find out about the changes in Loose Change. The Bookshelf Several Books of interest to slot machine collectors are reviewed. Product Review The coin-op enthusiast may not want to be without these things. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1981 |
COVER The Bally Double Bell was unleashed upon the world in 1939. Even in an era of enormous creativity and giant steps forward in technology, the Double Bell was something of a curiosity. It was not only a great deal larger and heavier than similar machine, but instead of the usual five or six clicks per cycle, the Double Bell had eleven. Another unusual thing about this machine was that lemons were promoted to paying symbols – though not necessarily for the reasons the Bally people publicized. As odd as the machine was, it was to be expected that it might some way resemble the Bally’s Reliance dice game. But no one has yet explained why the Double Bell has a long list of characteristics in common with the Mills Q.T. but with no other slot machine. The Double Bell has its workings explained, conjectured over and illuminated by Robert N. Geddes and David L. Saul, two recognized experts in the field of antique slot machine explication. FEATURES The Bally DOUBLE BELL In 1939 the Bally Company manufactured one of the most unusual slot machines of all time. And though the actual design of the DOUBLE BELL was very unusual, it had striking similarity to a certain Mills product of the same era. Bigger Than A Breadbox The Helms bread truck is more than just a vehicle. It is a piece of Americana that is part of a way of life that is probably gone forever. Converting On A Budget English slots are frequently just American machines with an accent. Gambling Paper The Gambler's Book Store is a unique source of written material about gambling, and a place where collectors can buy sell and trade. FICTION Slot Machines Never Die A Los Angeles private detective is hired to find the slot machines that disappeared off a gambling ship years before. His only clue is an operator’s daughter who’d rather forget the past. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The editor returns to Las Vegas after ten years. Product Review Coin-op enthusiast may not want to be without this elegant bit of decor. The Bookshelf A Book of interest to anyone who takes betting seriously. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1981 |
COVER By day, Stan and Betty Wilker both have regular jobs. He is an executive for a big forward-looking corporation, and she is an elementary school teacher. But on their own time, they are two of the most knowledgeable members of the coin-op collecting community. Their beautiful collection of Watling machines is itself worth a look. But when one learns that they are responsible for compiling the data for the Blue Book of slot machine values, and the Red Book of antique trade stimulators values, a visit seems even more worthwhile. They have been going to auction and trade shows for years not only to collect data and machines but to further the cause of the amusement token. The Wilkers were among the first to recognize the collecting value of these distinctive pieces of metal. A visit with the Wilkers is a memorable experience for anyone interested in the world of slot machine collecting. FEATURES Wilker Wonderland Stan and Betty Wilker’s home is full of beautiful gaming equipment, both conventional and mechanical. The Wilkers were among the first to collect amusement tokens, and are responsible for the data that goes into the popular appraising guides, the Blue Book of antique slot machines values and the Red Book of antique trade stimulator values. Jack Kelly: A Legend of the West Jack Kelly, one of TVs Maverick brothers, had an interest in the gamblers and conmen of the Old West that was more than TV-tube deep. The House on the Rock Near Madison, Wisconsin there is a surprising collection of artistic and scientific wonders from all over the world, including some of finest automatic music-making machines known. A Man and His Machine A new collector goes out to buy his first slot machine. FICTION The Rhythm of the Reels A man and his slot machine make beautiful music together. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The editor thanks some people who help make Loose Change possible. Product Review A new gadget for the coin-op enthusiast’s workshop is discussed. The Loose Change Arcade This month’s featured machine is the Exhibit AUTOMATIC PISTOL RANGE. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1981 |
COVER It is places like the Royal Americana Hotel and Casino that slot machines were meant to be seen and played. Alan Maiss and Don Britt, the senior executives at the Royal Americana are not only sympathetic to the wants and needs of people who are enthusiastic about coin-operated amusement machines, they are themselves are collectors.
On the cover, Maiss and Britt are taking a physical inventory of a blackjack table. Such an inventory is normally taken by the shift boss at the end of a shift, or when ever a game is closed. The inventory is usually taken in the rack, though here, for photographic purposes, it is taken out of the rack. The yellow chips are worth 50¢, the blue $1, the red $5, and the green $25. The silver chips are actually tokens that can be used in the dollar slot machines. Dealers also use the tokens as spacers to keep track of how many chips they have. In casino argot, the $5 chips are called nickels and the $25 chips are called quarters. Maiss says that running a casino for one day is like running any other business for three. How this is managed make fascinating reading. FEATURES All This and Slot Machines Too Alan Maiss and Don Britt have made the Royal Americana Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas a friendly and comfortable place, especially for machine enthusiasts. Running the Royal Americana is not an easy job, but with ingenuity, tenacity and hard work, they are not only running it, but making it a success. Surrender Earthling Two experts discuss how the new electronic games work, why they are more popular than pinball machines and how pinballs may make a comeback. The Canton, Texas Flea Market With over 3,000 dealers, the Canton Flea Market is a happy hunting ground for anyone interested in coin-operated machines and many other collectables. Over at Orin’s Place Read why Orin Yeager is one of the most respected collectors and restores in the country. FICTION Blackjack Billy When a man looking for a gift for his wife gets involved with a machine that plays blackjack, he discovers that size isn’t everything. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The editor tells how this month’s cover story came to be written. Legal Register Here is a list of attorneys ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems Bookshelf The book reviewed this month is a useful hobby guide. The Loose Change Arcade This month’s featured machine is the Exhibit IRON CLAW. Classified Advertising |
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June |
1981 |
COVER The Mills DICE MACHINE is unusual for many reasons – its shape, its weight, its three coin slots – but the most unusual thing about the machine is that it seems to do the impossible: it reads dice and follows the rules of the game of craps. All this is done mechanically, mind you, with real dice, and nary a transistor or an integrated circuit in sight. The method the Mills engineers used to work their wonders is both ingenious in its design and entertaining in its execution. Despite the machine’s many fine points, it was not popular. The first one was introduced in February 1935, and by Christmas of the following year they were out of production. Robert Geddes and David Saul have their own theories about why this happened. The Mills Dice machine is one of the most interesting mechanical constructs ever designed. How it worked and why so few people wanted to play it make an engrossing tale. FEATURES Mechanical Master of an Ancient Game The Mills DICE MACHINE throws real dice and follows the rules of craps. Still, this machine was never as successful as the excitement of playing it would seem to justify. Find out how the Mills Dice machine worked, and why it didn’t attract more customers. The New Mizpah Hotel - As Good as Old The Mizpay Hotel opened in 1908 and became an elegant outpost in the desert. The restored Mizpah, whose casino is now filled with unusual slot machines, provides modern conveniences while keeping its Victorian charm. Reception Rave You should have been at the old fashion collector’s party thrown by Loose Change and the Royal Americana Hotel and Casino. FICTION The Jigsaw Bell A young woman buys a slot machine and gets trouble along with it. To the rescue is Thomas Doyle, slot machine detective. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes The editor discusses a problem that affects every reader of Loose Change. The Gilgoff Report Well-known collector and dealer, Joel Gilgoff, talks about investment opportunities for the coin-op collector. The Loose Change Arcade This month’s featured machine is the Exhibit RAJAH FORTUNE TELLER. Legal Register These attorneys are ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Classified Advertising |
| July | 1981 |
COVER
FEATURES The Big Deal
Classy Cash Register
Actor's Workshop
Have Fans - Will Travel
The Hallowed Halls of Gaming
FICTION The Left-Handed Slot Machine
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
Editor's Notes
The Loose Change Arcade
The Gilgoff Report
The Bookshelf
Product Review
Creative Restoration
Legal Register
Classified Advertising |
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August |
1981 |
COVER This Fey ELECTROFIRE coin-operated shooting gallery is the only known survivor of three known to have been built. An idea of Edmund Fey in 1926, it was the forerunner to the modern coin-operated shooting gallery.
One of the unique aspects of this game was the use of electrical contacts in the gun cabinet to determine if one of the ducks had indeed been hit.
This game was on collector Thom Cockrill’s most wanted list for seven years from the time he first heard about it was available until the sale was finally completed. It was one of two which operated at the Long Beach Pike, the other known to have been completely destroyed.
According to Marshall Fey, son of Edmund, his father thought up the idea while watching the love shooting gallery at San Francisco’s Playland at the Beach. Marshall now owns the original prototype which his father operated in his own arcaded at the Playland amusement park. FEATURES Say The Magic Word “Say the magic word,” Groucho used to say. Arcade enthusiast Thom Cockrill did, and down came not one duck, but a whole shooting gallery full. It turned out to be one of the only known surviving Fey ELECTROFIRE shooting galleries. Arcade Routes It sure sounds like an ideal job, doesn’t it? Just put a few machines out on location, and go out scoop up the money once in a while. Well, wait a minute; there’s a little more to it. Chicagoland Antique Slot Show “The more we attend these shows the more we realize this is the way of the future,” says the respected author of this special report. And for good reason. Read why. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editor’s Notes Our editor bids a “Farewell to the Troops,” comparing the coin-op collecting hobby with his own interests. The Gilgoff Report Well-known collector and dealer, Joel Gilgoff, talks about investment opportunities for the coin-op collector, this month spotlighting the Bally Fireball pinball game. Product Review Here are several new products of interest to the coin-op enthusiast. Legal Register These attorneys are ready to assist you with your antique gaming machine legal problems. Creative Restoration Respected restorer, Tony Goodstone, tells how to set up shop, and it doesn’t matter where you live – you can have a shop. The Loose Change Arcade This month’s featured machine is a mechanical lady who is sure to enchant you. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1981 |
COVER “Silver Turns To Gold” is the official theme for Nevada’s celebration of its fiftieth year of legalized gambling. The gaming industry has had a long and colorful history in Nevada; sometimes the legislature approved of it and sometimes it didn’t. But there have been fifty consecutive years of legal gambling in the state now, and Nevada want to celebrate. Earlier this year, a Nevada legislative committee provided the state’s Department of Economic Development with the authority to promote the celebration from funds generated by royalties collected from the sale of official souvenir merchandise.
Our cover this month sports the official logo of the “Silver Turns to Gold” celebration. The logo, marketed exclusively by General Licensing Corporation of Encino, California, was designed by the Nevada Department of Economic Development’s advertising agency, Reber, Glenn & Marz of Reno, Nevada. We are enthusiastically supporting this occasion with our own look at the development of legalized gambling in the state of Nevada. Loose Change hopes that this first fifty years of consecutive legal gaming is only the beginning. FEATURES Silver Turns to Gold Nevada celebrates fifty years of legalize gambling with a colorful history. This issue is dedicated to this celebration. Nevada Picked a Winner Legalized gambling made Nevada famous. Harold’s Store Years ago, casinos were call stores. Harold’s was one of the first. Gambling License Number The Northern Club in Las Vegas got the first gambling license. Today, the same casino is called the Coin Castle. Reno Some say gambling put Reno on the map, but Reno was already there. Casino Security The eye in the sky sees it all. A Belly Fruit of Bell Fruit A California company revived Polk-style wooden cowboys with bellies full of slot fruit. Gaming Get an Education Now you can go to college to learn gambling. Why Do I Collect So Many Slot Machines? This collector is hopelessly hooked on slot machines Gaming Pioneers Early gambling figures made colorful history. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher tells why this issue is so big. The Gilgoff Report The Caille Centaur floor machine takes the spotlight. The Bookshelf Legal Register These attorneys can assist with antique gaming machine legal problems. The Loose Change Arcade The Love Tester was so popular it is being manufactured today. Creative Restoration Restoration and refinishing of wood is explained Classified Advertising |
| October | 1981 |
COVER
FEATURES Cashing In On Cash Registers
Legal States For Slot Machines
Sludikoff On Gambling
Collecting Slot Machine
DEPARTMENTS New Briefs
Mailbox
The Publisher's Desk
The Bookshelf
Legal Register
Creative Restoration
Product Review
The Gilgoff Report
Classified Advertising
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| November | 1981 |
COVER
FEATURES The Loose Change Fun Fair
The Goldfield Hotel
DEPARTMENTS New Briefs
Mailbox
The Publisher's Desk
The Gilgoff Report
The Loose Change Arcade
The Bookshelf
Legal Register
Product Review
Classified Advertising
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December |
1981 |
COVER Lawrence Birnbaum, is a plastic surgeon in the Los Angles area, has a unique welcoming committee for his patients- antique arcade machines.
He’s holding hands, with a Watling DOCTOR VIBRATOR, one of Watling’s rare entries into the world of non-gambling machines. Dating back to about 1905, this machine is one of three known to exist. The player (patient?) deposited a coin into the machine, and placed the hanging-down hand on what ever part of the body which required the vibratory treatment and received the treatment for a short period of time.
The woman behind Dr. Birnbaum, is a Mills PERFUME LADY. For a coin, the real ladies could hold their handkerchiefs over her flower and receive a short spray of perfume. She, too, is very rare; being made of papier-mâché, there are very few still in existence.
Dr. Birnbaum, feels that the old machines make his patient feel more at ease, since the sterility of the normal doctor’s office is nonexistent here. Many of his patients, in fact, commented about their respectful appeal.
Although all the machines in Dr. Birnbaum’s office are in working condition, the more fragile have been disconnected; the others, however, may be played by his patients if they so desire.
The two machines shown were fully restored to their original condition by Gary Taplin of Arcadia, California. FEATURES Penny’s Arcade The arcade machine is something that is unique to America. No other country had them; they didn’t want them. They lasted until the advent of talking motion pictures in the late 1920s. Then they slowly started to disappear. But this collector has one of the largest collections in the country – over 200 of them. Come join us for a walk through Penny’s Arcade. The Antique Gambler Auction The future of large, national auctions looked bleak for awhile. But The Antique Gambler just finished proving that if an auction can be run honestly, with a planned weekend of inexpensive fun and as an enjoyable meeting place for collectors, this it can be very successful. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher daydreams about how Loose Change was started and discusses its impact on the hobby and its role in the building of the hobby to its present status. The Gilgoff Report Our investment counselor is taking a break for the Christmas season. He’ll be back in January with a report on counter sales. The Loose Change Arcade The Atlas Dumb-Bell Lifter reminds man of a time when his muscles had to be in top shape – for survival!. Creative Restoration If you have ever wondered how Caille accomplished the green oak, wonder no more. Here’s the original method, complete with instructions for making your own wax. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Product Review Several new items take the spotlight this month from new items for the popular Watlings Rol-A-Top to something special for the ladies. Classified Advertising |
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January |
1982 |
COVER Steve Brooks enjoys what he does – selling antique slot machines and other coin operated and mechanical antiques. He not only enjoys it, but he calls his Sacramento, California store, Brooks Novelty Antiques, his home away from Home.
Steve carries a full line of antique slot machines, from the very common to the very exotic. “There’s something here for everyone,” Steve boosts, “no matter what their economic level.” And with a big grin on his face he says, “If you’ve got a dollar, I’ve got something for you. You only have 50 cents? Hmm, oh yes, here’s something I know you’ll enjoy!”
Steve isn’t wearing a costume. His clothing is an extension of his personality. “I feel comfortable with what I wear, and I want my customers to know they are dealing with a distinctively different person.
Steve’s story of success and his outlook for the present and future is interesting. Brooks Novelty Antiques is Northern California’s largest source of coin ops. FEATURES Brooks Novelty Antiques Steve Brooks loves to talk about slot machines. But he’ll talk about most anything. Loose Change asked him to talk about slot machines, his retail slot machine business and the hobby. You’ll enjoy what Steve has to say. Mad Money in a Mad House A meaningful slot machine of the past got away from this woman, just as it got away from her father many years ago. Make-Believe Casino In a fancy Beverly Hills hotel, dealers wait for players at roulette, craps and blackjack tables. In California? It must be a make believe casino. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher discusses reproduction slot machines, some dealers’ reaction and its impact on the hobby. He also asks for your reaction. Product Review Many new items from decals to reproduction slot parts are reviewed. The Gilgoff Report According to our investment counselor, scales are the coming collectible to keep your eye on. The Loose Change Arcade THE HUMPTY DUMPTY machine gave the player a chance to get his money back. The Bookshelf A third volume of the Most Collectible Slot Machines is on the market. Here’s how it stacks up – with itself. Creative Restoration Tony took some time off from the holidays, but he’ll be back next month. Classified Advertising |
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February |
1982 |
COVER East Texas businessman Jack Williams claims he started collecting slot machines by accident. But this collection doesn’t look like an accident; Jack learned quickly that originality and rarity were the things that were important to him and because of this he now has the finest collection of coin-operated machines in the Southwest. FEATURES Jack in the Slots This East Texas businessman started collecting slot machines by accident. Bu his collection is the finest in the entire southwest. Fun thing, though, none of his slot machines have three reels. The Wurlitzer Harp Angels play harps; we all know that; even though none of us has actually seen one. But did you know that there was once a harp that played by itself? Collectors Walketh on Legal Thin Ice Well, just as all Californian have settle down to collecting antique slot machines without worry about the police, this attorney/collector says, “Possession of slot machines is illegal in California!” DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher discusses another area of collecting that seems to have been forgotten. The Gilgoff Report Get into arcade digger (some folks call them claws) is this month’s advise from our investment counselor. Helpful Hints An engineer is heading up our new column about tested workshop hints designed to make the job easier and cost the collector less money. The Loose Change Arcade The HOW TO WIN punching bag machine gave the player a chance to be a prize fighter. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1982 |
COVER Sooner or later every collector and enthusiast of antique slot machines encounters the tiny world of the Mills Q.T. series. Introduced by the Mills Novelty Company in 1933, this popular series of machines underwent no less than thirteen different modifications during its seventeen year lifetime.
The machine on this month’s front cover, commonly called the “EAGLE,” “21 STAR” or “FIREBIRD” model – although Mills called it simply the Q.T. – is the third model and was introduced in 1934. The JUNIOR SILENT, and the large–jackpot “21 STAR” model preceded it.
The Q.T. can properly be called the first front load bell slot machine and preceded its casino model slot machines by a full twenty-five years.
This machine was restored by the Antique Gamble of Las Vegas, Nevada from an excellent original condition machine and features the original lock. FEATURES Is Tiny Qute? How many models of the Mills Q.T. Mini-Bell slot machine can you count? Two, three maybe even four? This article names and describes thirteen! Collecting Junk, Then and Now A former junk collector tells how he quit mashing up junk and started collecting antiques. Today he and his wife have a beautiful collection with pieces that he says are still junk! Harrah’s Pony Express Auction This four day auction which started on January 28th was probably the auction of the decade for collectors of early Americana, Indian lore and western memorabilia. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher discusses the new slot machines reel strip payout calculation service. The Data Sheet is of the facing page. The Bookshelf Several new books are reviewed, one about slot machines and one about antique typewriters. The Loose Change Arcade THE ELECTRIC ENERGIZER gave the player a chance to display his bravery, even if only to himself. Product Review This video tape is one of the most interesting items we’ve reviewed in a long time. The Gilgoff Report If lower cost coin-ops are your bag, the Penny-Nickel Master vender is this month’s purchasing advice from our investment counselor. Helpful Hints Our new column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1982 |
COVER “I started liking scales when I started working on scales as a mechanic with the Toledo Scale Company,” Gerald “Red” Meade says, “and that was thirty years ago.”
Thirty years is a long time to like something, and if one begins to collect things he likes – for thirty years- the collection becomes exceptionally large. Red’s collection is the third largest in the world.
Scales have touched every person’s life. From the moment they are born. The cost of something as simple – and tasty –as an orange - is determined by a scale. They are even used for counting large numbers of small parts.
A former employee of the Toledo Scale Company and the Los Angeles County Department of Weights and Measures, some of the experiences he has had with scales and the first hand knowledge gathered throughout the years is now paying off. Scales are big with collectors now, and they quickly pay thousands of dollars for the rare and beautiful styles. FEATURES The Scale King There is a man in Los Angeles that has so many scales he doesn't really know how many he has; he thinks they number about 800! He is the "Scale King". The Brass Register Where the heck is Richardson, Texas? Well, that's where there's a successful retail store selling all kinds of coin-operated goodies for folks like you. Recognition Well Deserved An organization has erected a plaque in San Francisco to Charles Fey, the inventor of the slot machine as we know it today DEPARTMENTS News Brief Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The hobby has been tarnished by one “antique” store’s dealing in modern slot machines. How long will it be before states start reversing the laws which have allowed the ownership of antique slot machines? The Loose Change Arcade The Palmistry Fortune Teller gave the player a fortune in the traditional way – by palm reading. The Gilgoff Report Our investment counselor discusses the ideal jukebox, the Wurlitzer M/1050. It looks classic, but plays modern 45-RPM records. Reel Strip Data Report Have you taken the time to participate in the free reel strip analysis yet? Just fill out this form for your slots and send it in; we do the rest. The Bookshelf Several new books are reviewed, both by the same note authors, both about collectibles and antiques. Helpful Hints Our new column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1982 |
COVER Hardly bigger than a cocktail glass, the Sega Enterprises, Ltd, Mini-Sega stand as a reminder that Mills Novelty Company was not the only company that made the Vest Pocket slot machine.
Although the Sega Mini-Sega has long been shunned by collectors, it deserves a prominent place any collection. This machine, in its final stages of production, was built of the finest materials available; in fact, as a quality product it probably surpassed the Mill Vest Pocket.
Today, Sega is owned by Gulf-Western. FEATURES Collector’s Shoebox “Design this baby bell not to be seen,” Mills said. “What we are talking about is a shoebox of design.” Today, these shoeboxes – finally made by Sega – are very collectible. The One-Arm Bandit Called one-arm bandits by the losers, slot machine have been taking the boot long enough says this collector’s daughter. Pinball Science Fiction The fantasy of pinball science fiction has been around since the beginning day of pinball games. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk These are difficult times for many dealers in the slot machine business. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. The Gilgoff Report Our investment counselor writes his last column – until the economy turns around. The Bookshelf A new price guide about collectibles and antiques is reviewed. The Loose Change Arcade The Jazz Baby gave the player a mechanical dancing doll for a coin. Classified Advertising |
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June |
1982 |
COVER While the rest of the country suffers economic woes, California restorer Steve Squires sells restored slot machines to a unique clientele at an unprecedented rate – and at very fashionable prices.
This rare, one-of-a-kind slot machine is a third (last) generation Mills Operators Bell with a Sampson, London jackpot conversion front. Steve is convinced that it was made under some sort of license from Mills Novelty Company because each part is marked with an MLB part number. FEATURES Squires and Corrie The woman had just purchased her son a “Hi Top” for his birthday at the bargain price of $2,750.00. Once-in-a-lifetime sale? Nope, it’s an everyday occurrence at this unique store. Sweden Talks About Slots Yes. Europe does have slot machines, and many of them are the ones American collectors cherish. The Missing Part If the Mills Q.T. article of several months ago seemed unclear to you, better read this corrective update. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher is on vacation. He will be back next month. The Bookshelf A new book about taxes on collectibles and antiques is reviewed. The Loose Change Arcade The Arcade Dice Fortune Teller told the player’s fortune with a toss of the dice. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. Classified Advertising |
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July |
1982 |
COVER At one time, punchboards could be found anywhere – from drugstores and cafes to service stations and taverns. Today they are seldom seen on location.
The punchboard shown on the front cover is a double jackpot style with heavy sexual overtones. Here’s how it works. For 5¢ the player gets a punch in the lower section of the board. He will either lose, win 15¢ to $1 for one of the slot machine combinations or get three “Lucky Bars,” for a trip to the “Cleanup Tub” – the first jackpot. A winner of the first jackpot takes a punch from the “Cleanup Tub,” and will win from 50¢ to $15 or a chance to go to the “Overnight Bag” – the second jackpot. A punch from the “Overnight Bag” will pay $5 or $25.
Boards of this type – promising so much, and suggesting a lot more – were notoriously stingy, but were extremely popular. Jackpot punchboards began appearing in the late 1920s. FEATURES Punchboard Primer Cheaper and easier to hide than a slot machine, and often more profitable, punchboards used to be in every type of business. Today they are gone. This introductory article brings the best of them back for another look. Call Dank A winning slot machine player dies of an apparent heart attack in this fiction mystery. Counterfeiting Those dealing in cash only may not be as safe as they think. Slot machines are not the only thing that can be copied. The Rex The Rex slot machine could be called an exercise in reckless design and manufacture, but it’s nevertheless a rare machine. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher wants to be promoted, but he’s having trouble finding his replacement. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. The Loose Change Arcade The Braying Jackass Lifter really brayed when the strong men lifted. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Product Review Two signs for restoration are featured this month. Classified Advertising |
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August |
1982 |
COVER Although the Pace Manufacturing Company Pace’s Races machine is better known among collectors, it didn’t last as long as the lesser-known Baker Novelty Company Baker’s Pacers. The Pace machine, on which production began in 1936 was finished six models later – by 1939. Baker got into the act in 1938, and over a dozen models later Baker’s Pacers went into the mid 1950s.
But Baker Novelty Company didn’t manufacture Baker’s Pacers. They only revamped the Pace’s Races.
At the end of World War II, Pace Manufacturing Company sold their interest in Pace’s Races to the H.C. Evans Company – including machines, inventory and patents. Evans produced their own version of the machine until 1947. The name of the new machine? What else: Evans Races. FEATURES The Pandora's Box That Pays Off The BAKER'S PACERS horserace slot machine is one that the author claims he never becomes bored with. That's quite a statement, but the BAKER'S PACERS is quite a machine. This article deals with some of the restoration techniques used for "brining 'em back alive." The Changing Slot Machine Market This article explains the lack-luster slot machine market with an approach not yet considered. The Dying Jukebox The jukebox may soon be a thing of the past. Why? Operators can't make any money with them any more. But they have hopes for "something new." BAKER'S PACERS Service Manual Collectors Stan and Betty Wilker generously loaned Loose Change their mint-condition Baker’s Pacers Service Manual (Form 201) for semi-reproduction in Loose Change. Reproduced are the most important parts of this manual. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. The Publisher’s Desk The publisher presents a positive idea that dealers can try for added exposure and boosting of sales. Bookshelf A book about Riverview, the famous Chicago amusement park, gets a grand review. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. The Loose Change Arcade The Electric Vitalizer allowed players to pay to be shocked. Some fun huh? Classified Advertising |
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September |
1982 |
COVER Of all the slot machines used in Nevada casinos, the Pace seemed to offer best of both worlds to the casinos.
The mechanism was the most foolproof and trouble free of all, and the low profiled, glittering design allowed close player observation and never grew old. The simplicity of the mechanism was a dream-come-true for key men and slot machine mechanics.
Players loved, and still love, the unique, snappy reel-stopping action of the Pace.
Many of the Pace machines are still enjoying active service in Harold's Club and Harrah’s Club.
Don’t pooh-pooh these casinos machines – regardless of make – until you’ve read this month’s feature article. FEATURES This Collectible Casino Machines Have you ever considered a casino machine not for your collection? Why not consider one just to play? This article tells why it might be a wise choice. My Uncle The Slot Bandit This guy got a jackpot every time the machine paid off. What a way to play! The Inscrutable Pachinko These tiny, vertical Japanese versions of the pinball machine are in 10,000 Japanese pachinko parlors. Then they come to the United States. Abner And the Nickel Jackpot The office freeloader hasn’t figured out this Master peanut vender the boss brought to work. Legal States For Slot Machines Our annual Fun Fair update of new laws for legal states has a few additions and changes. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher offers some positive hints for better dealer’s sales and better visitor’s purchases at the 1982 Loose Change Fun Fair. The Loose Change Arcade The Tiger Tail Puller must have been the perfect machine for the guy who always wanted to pull a tiger’s tail but was afraid to ask. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1982 |
FEATURES 1982 Loose Change Fun Fair Considered to be the best Fun Fair yet by most who attended, the 1982 Fun Fair had better quality merchandise, better booth displays and record crowds. The Machine That Lost Its Name It looks like the top of a Mills Gum Vender. But it has Fey reel strips and patched holes on the left side that used to be for a side vender. The man who owns it has had it since he was a boy. Tally Alley Did you ever consider owning a bowling game? No? Neither did the fellow that owns this one until it was offered to him for a piece of the advertisement. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher offers classified advertisements for the Christmas issue at a dollar each! And there’s no limit! Follow the rules, and you can run as many as you want. The Loose Change Arcade Cupid’s Post Office was one of the most enticing of all arcade machines. It looked like a post office window, and it was filled with implied love notes…for men or women. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. This month a product and instructions on how to clean reel strips is discussed. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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November |
1982 |
COVER A mechanism from a typical, modern Bally slot machine. FEATURES Manufacturing Slot Machines With exception of the additional electronics involved, the manufacture of slot machines has changed little since their introduction nearly a century ago. Bally Manufacturing Corporation is the background. Slot Machines of the Future Only time will tell what form future slots will take, but here are some interesting possibilities. Those Video Slot Machines Those computer-controlled video slot machines are really becoming popular. Who makes’em and what makes’em tick? I’m Looking For A Ferris Wheel Here’s a fellow who likes the “things” that go with slot machines better than the slots themselves. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher traces a special meaning of the coming holiday season to the Loose Change staff. The Loose Change Arcade The electrically-operated, floor model Photoscope stereo drop picture machine was enticing to the arcade owners, as well as the players, because of several unique features. The Bookshelf An interesting and colorful book traces the life and times of a Nevada gambling magnate whose death was the end of an era. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. This month a great idea for working on wooded slot machine cases is discussed. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1982 |
COVER Bally’s 1940 High Hand, a five-reel hold-and-draw card machine with automatic payout. FEATURES Beat The Dealer Bally’s 1940 High Hand was the next best thing to a live poker game. Features included hold and draw options on promising hands for the player. Little John’s Auction The largest auction of antique gambling memorabilia ever produced had soft prices. Antique Gamble Auction Extensive advertising brought a large crowd of spectators and buyers to this fourth annual Las Vegas event. Confessions of an Arcade Addict Childhood memories of old fashioned carnivals helped start this man’s collection many years ago. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The publisher is pleased with the reader’s participation in the Christmas special advertising extravaganza. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. This month another use for an eraser is presented. The Bookshelf Several new price guides have just been published. The Loose Change Arcade The Model D Card Vender was said to take in more money in an arcade as five ordinary machines. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1983 |
COVER An interior view of the Lux, a gambling ship anchored off he coast of California in 1946. FEATURES Lady Luck Goes to Sea In 1928 Lady Luck went down to the sea in ships…gambling ships anchored off the coast of Southern California. This profile traces this colorful era from its start to its finish in 1946, complete with high quality pictures taken of the rise and fall of the people and ships involved. The Evolution of the Jukebox If you’re surprised to learn that the jukebox had its beginnings prior to turn of the century, you won’t want to miss this blow-by blow account of the American jukebox industry. East Coast Auction Poor advertising and heavy, last-minute snows made this auction a give-away for the buyers that did attend. A Horse Tale His horses came in a box. Frightened and sick, he nursed them back to health, and now he keeps them in his house. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs The Publisher’s Desk Loose Change will be published a month earlier from now on. The publisher explains how. Helpful Hints Our column about tested workshop hints is designed to make the job easer and cost the collector less money. This month the refinishing of wooded cases is discussed. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. The Loose Change Arcade Exhibit Supply Company’s Photoscope Picture Machine was designed for traveling arcades and carnivals. Although it was made of steel, it weighed only 20 pounds. Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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March |
1983 |
COVER The 1911 Mills cast iron Operators Bell, just as it looked in 1911. FEATURES Cast Iron Coin Grinders Until the beginning of World War I most countertop slot machine cases were made of cast iron. The reasons were numerous. Today these cast iron machines are highly desirable collectors’ pieces. This article - with photo essay – traces their development and the end of the cast iron era. Yes, I’m a Gambler. So What? Somewhere between living in a casino and the person who curses gaming towns as cities of sin and abomination , there is a niche for the self-proclaimed loser who authored this humorous take of gambler’s giggles. Old Time Arcade Wisdom The original owner of Jean’s Funny House on Cleveland, Ohio tells how he spelled his own success with constant change. Traveling Arcades At one time traveling arcades roamed the countryside, bringing the coin–operated mechanical excitement of the big city to the small towns of America. By the end of World War II these traveling penny-a-play shows were numbered. This special report tells why these road shows were really the missionary for all penny arcades of their time. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk “Taking Loose Change is like being in a club,” a reader recently told the publisher. The publisher is trying to guess what he meant. The Loose Change Arcade Exhibit Supply Company’s Horoscope Machine towered a gigantic eight feet high. The player could have his monthly fortune told by dropping his coin into one of twelve slots. Helpful Hints Do this: Go to page 4, middle column at the bottom and read about “Helpful Hints.” Any takers? Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1983 |
COVER This early 1930s Jennings slot machine has just dropped its jackpot. FEATURES Hitting The Jackpot Winning any bet is fun. But when the winning bet comes from a slot machine, the thrill of that moment is tough to beat. Take a few moments to consider the origins and historical color of the jackpot win. There is so much more to the story than you might think. We’ve got it. You’ll love it. There Is A Tavern In The Town June has been looking for a bed. Not just any bed, mind you, but one that comes with those wonderfully appealing advertisements for “Four Glorious Nights and Three Wonderful Days in Las Vegas! Only $15 a Day!! Can she do it? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Our new editor is “joining the club.” She tell a little about herself. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. The Bookshelf A new jukebox price guide has just been published. Is it worthwhile? The Loose Change Arcade Exhibit Supply Company’s Astrology Machine was eight feet of vertical magic, all in a beautiful oak case. The player could have his fortune told by dropping his coin into on of twelve slots. Helpful Hints Here’s the good news. “Helpful Hints” will be back next month, and the one after that! Send in your “Helpful Hint” today. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1983 |
COVER This slide rule, the “computer” of yesterday can still be use today to compute the slot machine payout percentage of these reel strips. FEATURES Computer Charts The time has come to put the ultra-modern computer to work for slot machine collectors. This special feature is a compilation of about 35 traditional reel strip combinations. From the electronic age, comes help for the antique collector. Are your reel combinations here? Figuring the Reels This is the stop-by-step directions for figuring the odds for payouts from the slots you own. The mathematical work has all been one for you, but we haven’t taken all the fun out. There’s never been an article like it before! Unforgettable – That What You Are There are characters and there are characters. And it’s more than likely that gambling towns and gambling places have more then their share of true characters. Do you recognize any of these? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial This time we take time to explain the process involved in putting together our completely unique feature presentation. Just in case you might want to know. The Loose Change Arcade Examined this month is the Hercules’ Ball Grip, a test of strength that got a lot of play and fit in well amid any collection of amusement machines. Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Helpful Hints Here’s the good news. A hints or two in the right direction can save time, energy and money. We’ll run this column as long as you have a hint or two to share. Product Review Got a little good for you toy fanciers and antiques fans. A die-cast lottery wheel pencil sharpener. Would we put you on? Classified Advertising |
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June |
1983 |
COVER This collector’s first love is his motorcycle, but his slot machines and lady come next. FEATURES The Making of an Unusual Slot Collector Now, here’s a story you won’t read everyday! There are slots and there are slots, and collectors of every size, shape and persuasion. The slot machine collector we feature here is the most unusual. Dennis, a member of the Hells Angels motorcycle club, has a story that is as fascinating as it is informative. A House That’s Not a Home Our traveling lady essayist has been out and about once again, checking into and out of places of interest to gamblers, collectors and romantic history buffs. Legends abound, but there’s not ever been a story quite like the one June found recently during Frontier Days. Is it our imagination, or was June set up just the slightest little bit? The State of Pokies Down Under There is always a lot of action within the wild and wooly world of coin operated amusement devices, particularly when these devises are used for gambling purposes. The action may be overt or subterranean, but it is global in scope. Australians call their slot machines “Pokies.” Here’s the state of the industry, pokie-wise, from material supplied by a subscriber Down Under. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Just a note to encourage unity and mutual support among collectors and gambling enthusiasts. No preachy message, just a simple and heart-felt request directed toward a sense of community among all the colorful, diverse members of the very special club to which we all can belong. The Loose Change Arcade One more in a great series of antique coin operated amusement devices is ready for your enjoyment! This time we spotlight a two-gun Pistol Range that was a long-ago favorite for the “nation of straight shooters” we somehow embody. Ready? Aim… Legal Register Here is a listing of attorneys ready to help you with your gaming machine problems. Neither an ad or an endorsement, this section is provided to serve any of our readers who may have a legal questions from time to time. Sympathetic ears and intelligent minds at your beck and call! Classified Advertising |
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July |
1983 |
COVER After several standard-sized slot machines, this collector fell in love with the smaller ones. FEATURES A Man for All Slots: Another Collector Comes Clean Haven’t you ever wondered what happened to little boys who grew up around slot machines in the days when slots were more business than hobby? We have a prime example of that particular species right here. Mel Hindin, collector of all those so-called “small slots,” takes you back to the way it was, then proceeds to tell us how it is. Arrington Auction Report Stan and Betty Wilker have done all the work, and left us with the story to enjoy at our leisure. Ken Rubin gave us the pictures. The Arrington Auction of 1983 was many things to many people. How much were good collectibles going for? What were the bargains? Was there a lot of action or was buying restricted by economic doldrums? The Wilkers let us have it - editorially speaking. Antique Auction Annie Shows Her Stuff Well, not exactly! It’s just that someone who was supposed to be experience in this sort of thing, wound up giving a most unusual lesson to our own June Eppler. Sometimes we really worry about June. Her first-time antique auction turned out to be much more of an experience than she had imagined. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Our editor stepped away from the controls long enough to give the Big Guy his cut of the action. The Loose Change Arcade Moving right along in our exploration of some of the old-timey amusement devices that caught the fancy of folks so many years ago, we bring an interesting piece of nostalgia about the Aviation Striker, a dandy, up-in-the-are amusement device that fit right into the mood of the day. Helpful Hints Just when you though you knew all about it, we have another helpful hint to add to the list. Salvaging a broken spring is the focus of this month’s hint, from one who knows – the originator of “Helpful Hints.” Legal Register A service very few other provide, this listing of legal help is meant to be used. What a secure feeling it is to know we have access to understanding attorneys in this oft-misunderstood hobby. The best to help for the worst of times. Classified Advertising |
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August |
1983 |
COVER This lucky collector doesn’t specialize in anything, but he seems to have everything. FEATURES From Storm Drain to Private Casino: One collectors’ Dream Journey As unlikely as this may sound, the Bill Thomas story is all true. His story is one of a slot machine fan who basks in the loving gaze of Lady Luck, and can seeming do no wrong when it comes to taking the big chances – even at the worst odds. And now, this Thomas person is considered an “oldtimer” in the slot collecting hobby. How did he do it? What kinds of gambling memorabilia does he have? Find our by reading this month’s special feature story. The Law and Hot Slots Just in case you’ve wondered about some of the legal technicalities of buying and owning slots of questionable origin, Harold Gluck has a few words of wisdom for you. And if couldn’t care less, Gluck still makes interesting reading. As an attorney, he knows all the current ins and outs of titles. Whether looking for information or enjoyable reading, this article is just the coin for the slot. The Silver Cup Mr. T.M. McEnroe has done us all a great favor by writing this special report on a special machine. He has done a thorough and precise job, giving us all the benefit of knowledge without the accompanying expense of time and energy. It seems there is more here than first meets the eye. Those Lovely Ladies of St. Anselmo’s While out and about on one of her more lengthy jaunts, June Eppler literally stumbles across a most fascinating find. Who are these ladies she meets and why are they not taking? They must know something! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Our editor is back after turning the page over to the Big Guy last month. This month Sue asks the perennial question, “What is it about the written word?” We give up. Reading this lady editor’s spiel is a good way to get to know her and Loose Change a little better. Legal Register We provide this handy listing each month, so that more of the hobby members have access to competent attorneys with specialized talents. These people have all agree to be listed so that people with questions don’t have to contact unknown professionals. The Loose Change Arcade The Knockout Punch Tester was a gem of a machine in the early arcades. This little goodie gave men a chance to show their stuff and women an opportunity to swoon appreciatively. An arresting (no pun intended) study of a lovely machine. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1983 |
COVER This western town in the Nevada desert is actually the front of a casino. FEATURES The Gold Strike Inn & Casino: A Golden Discovery Out in the desert dunes among the wilds surrounding the Hoover Dam and Boulder City Nevada, there’s a gambling oasis unlike any other. Because the Gold Strike Inn & Casino is such an unusual collection of goodies, Loose Change took the time to visit it recently. We got the chance to talk to the man in charge of the Gold Strike Casino, Tony Korfman. He answered some of our questions about how one efficiently runs a mini-city which has gambling pleasures as a primary focus. Here, Tony tells all – well almost. Doin’ the Fun Fair and Doin’ It Right! We know you have questions about this terrific show and sale, and we are here to answer them. Whether you are planning to be an exhibitor, a visitor, a buyer or seller, there are special techniques you should be aware of. After five years of experiencing the Fun Fair from every conceivable angel we have amassed a compendium of tips for successful participation. Start here and read up, then meet us in Pasadena for the greatest show of its kind anywhere! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial This month our editor asks that perennial question: “Do I have to draw a picture?” She’s very concerned about the swelling tide of sentiment that requests she paste her face (a picture of her face, of course) at the top of the page, and has tried to still concentrated fears that she is either a boy named Sue or a girl named Dan. What do you think? The Loose Change Arcade The Champion Muscle Developer was another of those wonderful “athletic” machines that fascinated the arcade audiences of long-ago. Got a muscle you need developed? Legal Register A very special service of this very special magazine, the Legal Register brings the names of legal experts to the very people who may have periodic need of judicial expertise. Although not an endorsement, this listing reflects the special capabilities and sensitivities of lawyers who know the ins and outs of our unique hobby. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1983 |
COVER Here’s another use for an old jukebox wallbox. Complete plans and bill of materials for building it are included in the accompanying article. FEATURES Light Up Your Life – Beautifully That crafty collector, George Bachand, has done it again! Known for his “Helpful Hints” column, periodically appearing in this magazine, Bachand goes several steps further this time. He’s built a lovely addition to home and hearth: a lamp that is beautifully housed in an antique jukebox wallbox. Read this and get the glow on! More Fun Gambling by a Dam Site! This is one we promised in last month’s issue. Near and dear to the Gold Strike Inn & Casino, unique tourist attraction abound. Here we tell the fascinating stores of Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, the Grand Canyon and Lake Mohave. Then, too we bring you news of Boulder City, the town too tough to allow gambling. Abilene: Gateway to the West? The folks on the other side of the State of Missouri might disagree with this viewpoint, but according to Chuck Baker, it was Abilene, Kansas, not St. Louis, that served the title of “Gateway to the West.” Why? Read why right here! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial This hobby of collecting antique slots and other coin operated machines attracts all kings. This month, the editor has a few words regarding our own kind, and what we should be doing with and for each other. Keeping it clean may be the name of this very important game. Bookshelf Publisher’s Desk How can we allow the bankruptcy of such institutions as the Riviera without suffering consequences of monumental proportions? Current economic problems may be escalating for the gambling industry. What to do? The publisher has some thoughts on the matter. The Loose Change Arcade The High Striker takes a very stiff bow, being made of oak and all. This latest in the series on Exhibit Supply amusement arcade machines examines a very unique penny machine sure to ring bell of recollection. Legal Register Classified Advertising |
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November |
1983 |
COVER In a rare public appearance, Frank Polk attended the 1983 Loose Change Fun Fair with Ron Brooks (pictured) and Jim and Susan Lawson. The figure on the left is one Frank carved in his own likeness over thirty years ago. FEATURES The Fifth Annual Loose Change Fun Fair Some things seem to just get better and better, and the Loose Change Faun Fair is one of those things. This article is written from the point of view of a first –timer, and provides a very special a look at a most unusual event. Just in case you couldn’t be there, here is the Fun Fair revisited, just for your personal pleasure, in pictures words. Ramblings on a Second Slot Machine Hobby Good Ol’ Dave Evans is practically a fixture among slot enthusiasts and collectors. Here in this fascinating study of yet another aspect of the hobby he loves best, Dave tells all about how he got started reproducing reel strips for collectible slot machines, and the headaches and rewards that go along with it. Ain’t We Been Down This Way Before? June is back, even though winter is almost here. This month we carry the article by Ms. Eppler that was announced on our cover last month. This time our roving “eye” reporter brings you a few amusing thoughts on that special breed of person: The Collector. Recognize anyone? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Turkey and gravy and stuffing, and potatoes, both sweet and white, mashed and candied; green beans, corn, salads, relishes and hot buttered rolls, and mince meat, pecan or pumpkin pie; all are in abundance this holiday season. And the editor wants to talk about a well balanced meal? Bookshelf Legal Register A very special service of this magazine, our Legal Register gives you immediate access to attorneys with experience and expertise handling those “ ticklish” legal questions many slot owners and collectors have every now and then. Find a friend for a time of need. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1983 |
COVER If you were a good little boy or girl this year, wouldn’t you be surprised to find this Canada Perfection Card machine under your Christmas tree this year? The machine dates back to 1898. FEATURES Playing Poker for a Penny The Canada Perfection Card model machine, a five reel beauty in a hump backed housing, was one of the earliest slot to use playing card symbols in a whirl-a-reel poker game unlike any other. Playing poker for a penny was a rage at the turn of the century, where this little Canada was found. A Look Inside the Dealer’s Hand This pictorial guide to the insides of the Canada Perfection allows modern day collectors a fascinating look at the works of one of the earliest five reel slot machines in the United States. Drinking Slot Machines Fruit What nicer for the holidays than warm cheer, good friends (or warm friends and good cheer) and high spirits? How about a “Frosty Orange Fuzzy,” or a “Hot Slot Shot?” These holiday drinks are for slot fans who party hearty. June takes a lighter look at some heavy recipes. Electronic Protection for Your Slot Machines A professional takes a chance to tell you how to protect your collection and how best to keep it out of the hands of the criminals who want it. Forbidden Fruit in France To play slots or not to play sots, that is often the question abroad as well as here at home. French legislation currently under consideration would severely curtail if not eliminate that activity in France by next month if something isn’t done. The Amazing Domino Discovery Up until recently, only four Domino machines known to be inexistence. Then five more turned up! This could be the start of something big. Read why. Jukebox Genesis Ray Eklund graces the magazine this month, with some historical info on jukeboxes. Whence and Whither? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Pebbles in a pond leave a visible impression long after dropping to the bottom. Ripples move out and go on endlessly. So it is with magazines. We’re letting you in on it, first. Product Review Here is an answer for those of you looking for a cash box for your Watling machine. This one may actually be better than the real thing! Legal Register A very special service of this magazine, our Legal Register offers names and numbers of competent professionals interested in the same machine you are. Classified Advertising |
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January |
1984 |
COVER It looks as if the policeman is ready to scold the nice lady for playing her money in a slot machine. Fortunately, the lady is married to the policeman, and the policeman owns the slot machines. FEATURES The Collector Is A Cop Yell, “Cop!” in a hobby like this and most collectors try to back into the crowd and get lost. This officer is, however, a little different…he’s not only a law enforcement officer, he’s also quite a collector. From a Cave to Casino It’s said that the first gamblers were cave men, throwing the “bones” against the cave wall. The truth of this statement might be questionable, but the fact that gambling has been with us since ancient times is indisputable. The Chicagoland Show The November 1983 Chicagoland Show is reported by a Chicagoan as having several rare and desirable machines. I Hereby Semi-Firmly Resolve Broken promises, broken promises, broken promises. Oh well, what can you expect from June Eppler? Probability: Science of Chance Unlike gambling itself, probability is and exact science, defined by the most exact science - mathematics. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Editorial Afraid that Loose Change is running out of gas? Don’t be; capital expenditures made recently assure readers that the State of Publication is excellent. Bookshelf Like price guides? Then you’re going to love the new Kovel’s book. Product Review There was a time, not so long ago, that a missing back door for a slot machine was a real problem. Back doors have come an gone, but his one is a real heavy-weight. Legal Register A very special service of this magazine, our Legal Register offers names and numbers of competent professionals interested in the same machines you are. Classified Advertising |
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February |
1984 |
COVER The El Rancho Hotel and Casino, on the Las Vegas Strip, glitters on a cold, wet, winter, early weekday morning during the “off season” one of the cheaper times to visit this famous gambling city. FEATURES A Barefoot Boy’s Guide to Las Vegas There’s a Knack to just getting by in life, but why settle for getting by when you can be getting it on – especially in the razzle dazzle city of Las Vegas? Hearts and Flowers and Cupids and Venus June Eppler has a heart this month. She gives us all a slot machine valentine by taking us down Love’s Memory Lane. Slaying Slots With Style The say you can clock a slot and win all the time. They also say, well, they say lot about better slot play, but what we are most interested in is how to have a better time when you face that old one armed bandit. Buying That First Jukebox Once again, Ray Eklund has intelligently shared his ideas about collecting the most musical coin-op of all, the jukebox. This time, Ray takes us through a tour of the various ages of jukeboxes, helping the questioning customer find just the right jukebox to begin a collection. The Star Candy Machine Find There was this garage see, and there as his collector of gumball machines and when the two got together, it made for a most fascinating discovery. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register A very special service of this magazine, our Legal Register gives you instant access to legal expertise, and competent attorneys with special interests in the machines you love. Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk Our staff believes its important, for us as well as for you , to share some of the recent events which have affected the schedule of our publication. This month the publisher speaks personally to each of us. Bookshelf This month’s review spotlight has turned on Slot Machines, by Marshall Fey, grandson of the slot forefather, Charlie. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1984 |
COVER The computer age is her for home gamers. This low cost Colecovision program allows the player to play poker or blackjack with all the trimmings, including advice from card expert Ken Uston. FEATURES What’s This? Video Games or Gambling? A new surge of interest in video games is being felt as the result of such products as video poker, video blackjack and even video lottery. We go to the experts in this survey of the current state of gambling video games. Give the Old Crank a Hand There was this old hand crank Caille, see? Confiscated twice and beat-up at least once, the nickel grinder wound being restored by the owner’s son-in-law, even though he had no idea what kind of slot it really was. Mike Lacey’s Nightclub Nouveau From the moment you walk in, you expect to see somebody like George Raft. But he never appears. Instead, you are a part of the new order nightclub, surrounded by treasures from the past. That Trunk is Junk: Take it Away! The two teenagers had a lucrative business going – cleaning out attics for people who’d rather be doing anything else. Then, the totally unexpected fantasy became reality, when a workless old truck proved to be valuable. You Been Kissin’ A Blarney Stone? This is one hobby in which tall tales are not only expected, they are indulged with relish. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of the magazine, for those very special problems slot machine collectors are prone to. An understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. Mailbox Editorial Sure, it looks like an enviable job to you, but when it comes right down to it, we’re playing for our lives. A look at the more subtle aspect of publishing Loose change amid a new wave of hobby interest, now sweeping the country. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1984 |
COVER This Caille New Century Detroit floor machine is a focal point in the dining room of Mark and Anna Lee Shetler. But he has others! FEATURES Well, Sir, The Way I See It You’d almost think Mark Shetler had been in the slot machine collecting game forever. Not true! But you’d never know it to see his collection. He blazed a trail to California in 1934, joining a host of other men who were having trouble getting work. But Mark didn’t go hungry for long. He soon had a job, then his own business, then money then retirement…and about then he started being a slot machine collector. Here’s Johnny: Still Winning After All These Years Johnny Winn is a classic. Born into the family of an inventor, John continued the tradition. He story reaches back into the dawn of the evolution of coin-op amusement machines, and includes several tours of duty aboard the notorious gambling shops off the coast of California. A fascinating chronicle of one man’s wining style. The Mysterious Madame Moustache The townspeople though it was to be a casino. Then they thought…Well, you’d better read it for yourself. Here is one of the most fascinating tall tales to come out of the old west. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register The Legal Register hasn’t been dropped, just continued (that’ legal talk!) until next month. Mailbox Editorial “Wait, I have this terrific ideal, “the publisher said. When the publisher speaks, everyone listens…well, I do. And there have been other good ideas, too. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1984 |
COVER Jim Suber collects trade stimulators, those “little slot machines that don’t pay off.” Except the one he’s holding seems to have a jackpot. FEATURES Stimulation, But Not For Trade! The ubiquitous trade stimulator, slot machine forerunner, elicits excitement, pride and interest in some folks, while other view these machines as pseudo-slots, without social or cultural redeeming values. This month we introduce you to one man who knows that trade stimulators are excellent collectibles – so he does (collect them, we mean!) Those Thoroughly Modern Mints What would some of the good ol’ boys think abut such a thing? They might have figured countertop slots, after all that‘s not so unusual. But the mini machines now sweeping the gaming world are not at all what small slots used to be. We take a look at these fascinating machines, their origins, and the furor they are causing in the amusement industry. You Are: My Good Luck Charm You just can’t ever tell what that person next to you in the casino might be using as a good luck charm, but you can bet it’s unusual. June Eppler takes us on a tour of recent charmed finds, some of which will amuse, some surprise! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Let you fingers find a lawyer! Right here in Loose Change magazine, you can find all the competent legal assistance you may ever need to help you get (and keep) the most out of your collection. For special needs, these are special people! Mailbox Editorial After several years of research, we are just about ready to take on the issue of counterfeit, replica, or repro machines, as they apply to our hobby. This month, the editor tells you what you can add to the discussion. Get you pad and pencil. And That’s The Way It Was Was it really good back in the good ol’ days? Was the West really tamed? Were the games ones of life and death? The debut of a regular feature for the historian and humanists and memory-keepers among us. Classified Advertising |
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June |
1984 |
COVER Greg and Judy Falletich opened a retail slot machine store when others were getting out of the business. How and why are some of the questions answered. FEATURES Leave It To A Falletich To Give You The Business Two dedicated individuals who have been collectors for many years, turned their interest and expertise into a very successful business. Greg and Judy Falletich began their venture on little more than a shoestring and a reel strip. Jukeboxes Will Legislation Push’em Under? Legislative attempts are being made to modify recently enacted increases in licensing and registration fees for jukebox owners/operators. A Report On the Arrington Auction Two knowledgeable reports bring you the latest information on the most recent Arrington Auction. And They Called It The Birth Of The Bell June Eppler takes a loving look at mechanical wunderkind, Charles Fey, and what it might have been like for Charlie to patent this famous Liberty Bell. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Legal Register Need a legal hand in answering your questions about collecting? We provide a continually running, free referral service to your subscribers, by listing these knowledgeable and understanding attorneys. Mailbox Editorial Sure, it looks like an enviable job to you, but when it comes right down to it, we’re playing for our lives. A look at the more subtle aspect of publishing Loose change amid a new wave of hobby interest, now sweeping ht country. Bookshelf Got a promising-looking book in the mail recently, and it even had our magazine listed. But, wait. Is that good new or bad news? Product Review What have we here? A gleaming, glistening replica of one of the most beautiful brass cash registers ever made. And what makes this particular cash register so remarkable is the fact that it’s an elegant jewelry box! And That’s The Way It Was Second in a new series, we step back in time to the year 1848 and give you a personal feel for the going-on. Based on the premise that historical fact is every bit as exiting as modern fiction. Classified Advertising |
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July |
1984 |
COVER The man with the big grin is Harry Sutter, and he has a good reason to be happy. He’s one of the few “old timers” that has been at the coin-op collecting game for more than ten years! FEATURES Ten Years In the Collectors’ Circle When Jerry Sutter first began collecting slot machines in 1970, there were still many machines available at very reasonable prices. That alone sets him apart. A lavishly illustrated provide of a fascinating man and his remarkable collection. From First Show to Fun Fair – Fifty Fantastic Years Coin machine shows are more than good business – much, much more. The first Pacific Coast Coin machine Show was held in Los Angeles exactly fifty years ago and was an enormous hit. Charles Fey was there. Marshall Fey will be at the 1984 Fun Fair. An anniversary-link story, just for the fun of it. Where Have All The Arcades Gone? This lady asks the strangest questions. Now, she’s has some second and third thoughts about the old penny arcades and their ultimate fate. June Eppler got an escorted tour of a modern-day arcade recently and couldn’t wait to tell you about it. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register A specialized service for our specialized reading audience. We offer our legal listing of competent attorneys in the hopes hat we can all work together for the benefit of the entire hobby. Mailbox Editorial The news of a recent ruling on slots by a California court has everybody all charged up and tense with anticipation. But wait! The attorney urges caution. Bookshelf A booklet by Rosanna Harris, You Should Know About Slots, gets a going over by or review staff. And That’s The Way It Was Gamblers and riverboats go together like chips and dips, like woofer and tweeter, like girls and boys. Another in our new series of look-backs, this article examines the life of the riverboat gambler on the Mississippi River, 1828. Classified Advertising |
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August |
1984 |
COVER Helene Sutter is indeed “sittin pretty” in the company of friends. Carousel figures are becoming more popular all the time as valued collectibles. Helene has a impressive collection of 25 of the figures. FEATURES Vanishing Breed: Noble Carousel Steed There are 25 carousel figures in Helene Sutter’s collection. She collects, restores and maintains them out of a sense of loyalty to bright childhood memories, just like hundreds of other are doing. We look not only at this collection, but at the hobby itself, which is enjoying a newly unleashed surge of popularity. Fun Fair Fanfare Every year about this time we take the opportunity to preview the Loose Change Fun Fair for our readers. We give you insight into how the Fun Fair may be best experienced, whether you are a buyer or seller or looky-loo. This year’s show and sale is bigger and better than ever, so an introductory tour of facilities is certainly not out of order. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Knowing there is a caring professional around when you need one is a very secure feeling. Our listing of attorneys is so special because our collectors are so special, and for at least one common reason: both groups care about the collectible slot machine. If you’re in a bind, seek out one of the competent professionals on our list. Better safe than sorry. Mailbox Editorial This month the editor challenges us to ask a provocative question: What are we doing and where are we going? The reason for discussion is a need to examine current trends in our ongoing evolution as a circle of collectors and enthusiast. Do we work for unchecked growth of numbers? Should we organize? Have we become a Secret Society? For the mental prestidigitators among you. And That’s The Way It Was It was 1912. The summer sizzled through the streets of Canton, Ohio. In the courtroom of Judge Quinn, the O.K. Gum Vender was on trial as a gambling device. Quiet: they’re about to announce the ruling. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1984 |
COVER Stan Wilder and George Stupar share center stage with a Watling Jack Pot. They also share a secret: This is a machine that is not actually the first jack pot slot at all, but an example of what on of these cogent collectors calls “Watling hype” FEATURES Watling’s Wily Joke-pot: Number 55 Two collectors with a lot of slot savvy have made waves with their latest claim that the Watling Jack Pot really is not at all what it seems. They say it is not even the first slot machine with a jackpot feature as has been claimed previously. Well, what have we here? Tribute: To The Late, Great John Winn A few thoughts on the life of the man who was Johnny Winn. The focus of a recent article chronicling his life and myriad of accomplishments, Johnny was a most remarkable individual. His story is the stuff of legends. We pay homage and thank our luck stars we got to know him. Legal States For Collecting Slot Machines The current legal status of slot machine ownership is always of concern to collectors, now or old. We run the annual listing of states in which it is legal to collect slot machines and leave the rest up to you. Gambler’s Gimmicks Las Vegas entertainment centers have been courting the public in active fashion for many years. What won’t they do to drum up business? Not much. Only a diligent and creative P.R. department could come up with an idea like moving the casino outside and into the pool! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register A constant feature of our magazine, this listing of professionals is an exclusive service designed to put your special hobby related problems in the hands of a like minded pro. Help is a phone call away. Mailbox The Way It Was In September of 1880 the silver edged town of Tombstone, Arizona was 3,500 strong and vitally impressed with itself. Excerpts from the Epitaph regale us with lavish depictions of the Grand Hotel, the Alhambra and the Tombstone Club, cultural centers of a booming mining town. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1984 |
COVER The 6th Annual Loose Change Fun Fair is over now except for fond memories. Luckily, the great times and fantastic deals found at the one-of-a kind show and sale will live on in the personal reminiscences of all who attended. FEATURES Sixth Annual Loose Change Fun Fair It’s all over but the shouting, now that the doors are closed on the 1984 presentation of the loose Change Fun Fair. Those of you who were there will enjoy this glimpse back at another fantastic show and sale. Those of you who missed it all can get a look through the windows of our report’s eyes. The Jukebox Connection Ray Eklund takes an informed and insightful look at the links between hobbies and hobbyists who collect similar machines. Are slots and jukes collectively linked? This man believes they are. Midway Gaffs: Those Cheatin’ Ways! Guess What? Gaffs on the carnival and amusement fair midway have become something of an institution. Why not? They’ve been going on long enough. June Eppler muckrakes down the midway and exposed those sucker games we’ve all played so often. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register An exclusive service of this magazine, the Legal Register puts the names and numbers of legal professionals right in your hands every month. Our unique listing is the most security you can get in one place when it comes to asking that legal question about your collectibles. Mailbox Bookshelf Three for the price of one this month, as our staff reviews one new book about jukeboxes and two books that give us a look at all the free campgrounds and amusement possibilities in the nation. The Way It Was 1906: the year the whole slot machine industry received a sound shaking at the hands of none other than Mom Nature. How it was just before and for awhile after is told here and you are there. Classified Advertising |
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November |
1984 |
COVER This trio contains a pre-Polk figure, a genuine Polk-carved figure and a post Polk figure, three of many styles and models to be introduced since the 1950’s. Can you pick a Polk? FEATURES Pre-Polk? Polk? Post-Polk? Pseudo-Polk?! The idea of carve figures for the embodiment of slot machines has hooked hobbyists. There are those who buy and those who sell, and those who sell have been actively following in the boot shaped footprints of Polk himself. Today’s Best Jukebox Bet Ray Eklund gives us the inside scoop on the Seeburg “Barrel,” models from 1946-1948 that may prove the best collectible investment you can make. Where There’s A Will, There’s A Way An attorney explains the finer points of making a will. The objective is to protect your collection while you’re alive, so nothing is left to chance when you’re gone. Flipper Flapper, Thumper Bumper – How’s Your Pins? A quick look at the world of pinball games as it stands today. Part I of an examination of the pinball machine as a collectible. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register What could be handier than a monthly listing of legal experts familiar with the hobby of collecting slot machines? Mailbox Editorial We are puffed up with pride over his issue of our magazine. The amount of teamwork, dedication and cooperation necessary to pull this one off has been substantial, but how rewarding to know we really do all belong to this family! Product Review Now there’s something on the market that may make patching of real strips obsolete! We take a look. 1939: The Way It Was The old-timers remember when the gambling ships were all at sea and the law was givin’ them fits! In 1939, Tony Cornero is operating his luxury gaming ship, Rex, in dangerous waters, just off the California coastline. Bookshelf This month we give a once-over to Rick Bott’s A Complete Identification Guide to the Wurlitzer Jukebox. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1984 |
COVER An “Aikens Front” Extrabell slot machine dresses up the special holiday tee in Dave Haskell’s home. The tree is a year ‘round fixture for the Haskells, who decorate it according to the holiday season. FEATURES Haskells’ Tree: Happy Holidays All Year The Haskells decided to keep their tree up a little longer than usual – one full year. It’s All In The Name All about those slots named after insects, animals, heroes and deities. The Hows And Wheres Of Finding Jukeboxes More insight from and insider, who aids and abets the purchase of a collectible jukebox. The Ten Commandments Of Collecting A lighthearted list of shalt’s and shalt not’s for those individuals afflicted with terminal Collecting syndrome. Slot Machine On Trial One California Court of Appeal has found that the definition of “antique” in stated statues is “unconstitutionally vague.“ Tribute to Susan Lawson An affectionate salute to a remarkable woman. The Jim Wells Auction A look at a three day auction of a 50 year collection. Tribute to Rome Andreotti Notes on the passing of a consummate gamesman. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register For those very special problems slot machine collectors may have. Editorial The latest in “Fixing The Odds For The Loose Change Gamble.” 1951: The Way It Was The Johnson Act has been signed into law. What will become of slots? Bookshelf Two winners: one on jukeboxes, another on treasure. Classified Advertising |
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January |
1985 |
COVER This Hole-In-One slot machine is new from Gary Mackey and partner, John Lewis. The insides sport original Mills mechanism from the 1930s. For the collector who golfs or the golfer who collects or for you. FEATURES Are Fronts Back? Gary Mackey and his partner John Lewis, have put a new font on an original 1930s Mills machine and the result of the paring is spectacular. A look at this new/old slot machine, the Hole-in-One, and some of its historic predecessors. Pinballs Part II The second installment of an in-depth examination of the world of pins and the way they play. Taking up with machines made after the War, we move into the Age of Electronics. Then we ask the perennial question: Do pins have a future? England’s Museum Of Penny Slots When Chuck Baker visited Brighton-By-The-Sea, England, he did not expect to find this fascinating museum housed out at the end of Palace Pier, just waiting for Chuck and other board walkers to drop in. The Collectible Jukebox Ray Eklund takes a tour of the all-American investment, the jukebox. Not so much where it’s from, but where it’s going and why you should be along for the ride now, before it’s too late! The Luck Of The Lottery Four states gave an approving nod to lotteries in the general elections last November. A Californian examines the campaigns, the plans, the game play and the ultimate possibilities. Tips On Antiques Care Ralph and Terry Kovel, leading authorities in the field of antiques and collectibles, lend us a hand in answering some oft-asked question on the care and feeding of many different types of antiques. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial A potpourri to kick off the new year. We look backward and then forward in time; then share the views with you. Why what we do will affect how we do it. Product Review John Caler has come up with another better idea, this one a very sturdy spring puller. We pull a few springs and tell you about it. Bookshelf Reviewers got to go over the latest edition of the Kovels’ Antique & Collectibles Price Guide this month. Is it hot? Or not? 1947: The Way It Was Benjamin Segal was no bunny rabbit, regardless of his nickname. He is credited with sparking the wildfire development of Las Vegas into a gaming capital. So, what made him so special and why did he have to die like that? Legal Register The only listing of its kind, we bring you a special group of lawyers with your very special interests at heart. Got a problem? Get a lawyer! Classified Advertising |
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February |
1985 |
COVER Chuck Neidinger’s specialty coin machine store is the largest of its kind anywhere. At Home Amusements it is not unusual to shop with some very famous people. FEATURES A Most Extraordinary Store Chuck Neidinger’s Home Amusement Company of Rockville, Maryland is the largest retail store in the United States. With 18,000 square feet of factory, warehouse, shops and showroom, Chuck offers his customers an endless variety of slot machines, jukeboxes, pinball games, antique arcade amusement devises, gumball venders and video games. This brainchild of Chuck and his enterprising family is more than amusing – it’s awesome! The Reel Slot Machine Story When was the last time you took a true/false test? One about slot machines? The answers to some of the questions posed in this article may surprise you. Chicagoland in Fall In the Midwest, the semi-annual Chicgoland Antique Slot machine and Advertising Show is turning out to be a coin-op collectors’ stomping ground. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are pone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. Several new attorneys have recently been added the list. Mailbox Editorial The editor has dreamed up some easy ways for you to see your story in print. One unique way allows you to have your article published without writing it out on paper. 1899: The Way It Was John W. Gates was a gambling man. In fact, his penchant for gambling won him the nickname of “Bet A Million” Gates. But can you imagine how surprised he was to learn that someone else bet him in a craps game and lost!? Bookshelf This month’s review spotlight has turned on an excellent book about tells, those mannerisms which help you determine the secrets of an opponent’s poker hand. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1985 |
COVER Collectors Ken an Elaine Miller don’ have to leave home to visit bygone days. They happily surround themselves with memorabilia, an opulent display throughout their home and yard. FEATURES The Tax Man Cometh to Collect Ken Miller began as a sociologist but turned into a financial consultant. It was that seemingly mundane career that introduced Ken to the world of collectible slot machines and antiqued advertising. Then there that amazing display of poison bottles – 300 of them. The Transformation of Hernando Cortez Don rock has always held a fondness for character figures of the Polk – inspires kind. When he hear that the El Cortex hotel was interested in a slot figure, he got interested too. His personal touches tell it all. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Bigger and better all the time, this listing of competent attorneys with interest like your own, is fast proving to be an invaluable reference guide. All the help you need, when you need it most. Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk Our Big Guy takes a turn at the type and tells us about names and faces and the like. Seems he has this new toy and he wants to share it with you. Don’t keep him up long, it’s nearly nap time. 1980: The Way It Was There were these humbugs, clampers and grand noble types, see? And they got together to memorialize the contributions of one Charles Fey. Is this the erection of a monument? Bookshelf An international love affair of the French kind, this month’s selection is Machines a sous, with glorious color photos and not one word of English (does l’once Sam count?) Classified Advertising |
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April |
1985 |
COVER
FEATURES Those Flippin’ Penny Machines These unsung sweethearts are the first known examples of jackpot only, automatic payout slot machines, even though they had no reels, no wheels and made no deals. Penny flips, nickel drops, counter and floor pocket machines; we take look at them all, in a bight new light. Mills Novelty Co. Rides Again Thought you’d heard the last of the Mills Novelty Co. did you? Not so. They’ve been around all this time, but hooked to other names and non-slot endeavors. Not those irrepressible Mills boys come ridin’ back in, with jackpots drawn and read to drop. Sounds of Money Talking Lee Isgur, of the financial consulting firm of Paine-Webber, reports on the status of video lottery machines and offers predictions for the future of these devices. 1985 Gaming Business Exposition It was an insider’s party, this exposition, but we managed to cover the event for our readers. Here then, a look at the business of gaming and an evaluation of what it all meant in terms of trends for the future. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial California is in the middle of a legislative upheaval relative to the possession of slot machines. Our editorial call to arms is being sounded before those elected officials sound the death knell of collectible slots in California. Are you ready? 1944: The Way It Was The newspapers are filled with the fuss being kicked up by an eastern legislator who wants all slot machines off military bases. We present his side and another, for the very fun of it. Legal Register What more can we do? In times of unrest when the slot situation is unclear, don’t get a headache, get a lawyer. Keep a cool head and find a competent attorney who understands your very special needs. These people are professionals who can lend you a legal hand and mind. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1985 |
COVER Antique gaming devices of all kinds are valued collectibles today, items such as keno geese, card shoes, tables, chip/tokens and wooden counter game. This striking display is but a taste of possibilities. FEATURES Collecting Gaming Memorabilia The historic slot machine family includes numerable relatives, some likened to devil’s tools, but being more generally gaming memorabilia, A look at; card table , tokens, counter, dice, horns, cups, cases, layouts and dealers’ boxes. Hot items in collecting circles. Happy, Happy Birthday, Harolds! The club that is celebrating 50 years of industry firsts, is having a year long party and we’re all invited. For the record, here’s pictorial packed parade down the lane where memories live. The Credit Card Slot Machine Several years ago, one man predicted the advent of the futuristic slot machine, one which would make use of the capabilities of the computer and the plastic credit card. We examine the Lott-O-Gold slot machine system from Kenilworth, prediction come true. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Are we perhaps entering another period of political activism for slot machine collectors? Could be that way if the tides threaten a turning back to restrictive legislations. Wasn’t this a battle we counted as victory? 1953: The Way It Was It was the best of times, it was the worst of times…It began to look like the end of an era as a family business sold out. Classified Advertising Legal Register We are proud of this extremely specialized, unique service, provide for the mutual benefit of us all. These competent attorneys are professionals with experience meeting the judicial needs of slot machine collectors. A listing that’s on of a kind. |
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June |
1985 |
COVER Surely you recognize the face, if not the figure of this beautifully restored Pace Bantam, one of a line of Bantam machines manufactured between 1928 and 1933, and a coveted collectible in its own right. FEATURES Pace’s Bantam: It’s No Lightweight A picture story-look at the mini-machine that may have made Ed Pace’s fortune and placed the former Mills jobber forever on the pages of slot machine history. The Pace Bantam remains one of the most enduring favorites among coin machine collectibles. We give it an affectionate overview. A Floor Show of Twins & Triplets Hit ‘em with the purple spot! Spotlight, that is. These wonderful old Caille combination upright wheel machines deserve their own floor show, front stage and center. Whether twins, like the Centaur/ Eclipse, or triplet, like the Centaur/Eclipse/Lone Star, these marvelous slots get our full attention. A visual feasting. Casino Antiques On The Auction block It was another of the Arrington Auctions in Las Vegas, the sale that concentrates on Victorian antiques from gaming clubs around the world. We report the flow of the auction action. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial The fallout from the introduction of AB 1202 continues, as the bill wends its way through the House.. The chaos seems about over, the dust is settling, and a whole lot has happened to the hobby in the State of California. Product Review The guys at Bob DuRose Coin Slot Machines have a complete set of wiring diagrams for the Buckley’s Track odds “Daily Double” machine. We check it out. 1985: The Way It Was The Phantom Gambler struck twice in the same place, then wound up dead in a motel room after wining a cool million on one throw of the dice. A true story. Bookshelf A perambulating perusal of the contents of a new jukebox price guide, from Steve Loots of Victory Glass. Classified Advertising
Legal Register We have the names, addresses and phone numbers of qualified attorneys across eh U.S.; men and women who have the special legal expertise needed by collectors of coin machines. Exclusively for the reader of our most unique magazine. |
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July |
1985 |
COVER The couple in the slot shop keep thinks hopping. Bob and Kelly Peccole have owned and operated A&P Slots since 1978 when they were wed. A finer store run by our kind of people. FEATURES Slots Are A-OK At A&P! Bob and Kelly Peccole have a shop in Reno that caters to the need of slot machine buffs and other coin machine enthusiasts. Since 1978, Kelly has run A&P Slot with the help of Bob an original old-timer in the gaming business. Besides heir wonderful wares, the Peccoles have a collection of machines that began back in the 1930s, when Bob ran slots in Nevada with his father. A unique blending of the old and new may be found in the Peccole shop and the Peccole story. Beginning Of The End? Ray Eklund noticed something very interesting at the last show and sale he attended: reproduction jukeboxes. Now he is wondering if this spells the end of the collectible period jukebox. In fact, he is wondering if there is a chance that jukeboxes will go the way of the antique slots, in terms of a developing hobby. A sharing of concerns and the raising of a few questions, guaranteed to provoke though. Antique Arcade With Suntan! The Bellm Museum n Sarasota, Florida is a rambling complex of buildings originally designed to house a huge car collection. Now it also features a main exhibition area devoted to those boardwalk beauties of bygone days, the arcade coin-ops. One person visited the Bellm place recently and sent us this souvenir package take a peak. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox 1978: The Way It Was Once upon a time, there were no slot machine shows, no Fun Fairs, no big get together for those unusual folk who loved unusual machines. What it took was a couple of good ol’ boys with a passionate penchant for coin-ops to dream up the idea a yearly party, then make the dream come true. A story of the best laid plans of mice and men… Classified Advertising Legal Register Even a specialty magazine can take pride in this completely unique reader service If you have a legal problem; we offer the names and addresses of competent professionals to assist you. Get the best help available; it’s available in this listing! |
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August |
1985 |
COVER She can bake a cherry pie, quick as a cat can wink its eye! She’s Carole Farnum and this is her 1930’s kitchen, just one small part of the Farnum home. It’s all collectible decorated. FEATURES It’s a Zoo! A Circus! A Collection! The exterior of the Farnum home is nothing unusual to look at, but just beyond those large front doors is another world. We take a words and pictures trip trough times past, accompanied by the carnival following Farnums. Step right up! You’ll be amazed; amused; delighted! Think Twice Before You Auction Well it sounded like a good ideal at the time, but Peter Bilarczyk found out that auctioning off a collection is not nearly as easy as it sounds. In the process, he learned a lot the hard way. We benefit from his lessons as he shares he trials and tribulations of auction action. You Need a Good Appraisal Dr. Harold Gluck presents us with another information article on the protection and preservation of our collectibles, this one designed to help us secure professional appraisals. The whys and wherefores from a legal expert, before we need it. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are pone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend a legal hand. Mailbox Editorial Summertime and the living is easy? Well, for some, maybe. There is still too much going on in the hobby to take any kind of breather. The editor looks at the current state of affairs and takes some bets on the action. 1931: The Way It Was Still in the throes of Prohibition, the nation continued to gamble in a big way; a company named Bally put out the Ballyhoo, and Nevada legalized gambling at last. Bookshelf A look at the Harvey’s Guide to Gaming Checks and Tokens, to see just how it stacks up. Another entry into the literary library opening up for the gaming check enthusiasts. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1985 |
COVER California collectors recently worried about having to go into hiding if a strict AB 1202 passed into law. Luckily, with teamwork and compromise, the collectible slot hobby is out of its plain brown wrapper again! FEATURES The Ways & Means of Legislation Back in grade school we learned the way bills become laws, didn’t we? Sure, we did. There’s a trick or three to taking care of congressional business, whether state or federal, public or private. We talk tricks. Legal States for Collectors of Slot Machines The 1985 update that answers the perennial question: are the machines legal in my state? All the latest changes wrought by legislative action nationwide. A License to Make Slot Machines Your government will give you license to make your own slot machines, and won’t charge you any money for the opportunity. We’ve even include a sample letter of application. Report to the Justice Department They wanted to know about the history of modern slot machine manufacturing, as we told them. The full background and content of this report to the state law enforcement agency that requested it. New Mexico Goes for 25 Year Law With a little help from the Colorado contingency, New Mexico has come up with a collector friendly law. Action in the southwest. The Great Ohio Slot Machine Test The Mills-Jennings cases are putting slot on trial again in Ohio, but this time there is a much stronger defense. Details of legal actions that could have far-reaching ramifications for slot lovers. A Slot machine Law Most Unique North Carolina has come up wit a new wrinkle for the face of their slot machine laws. We share the details and the definitions. Big Apple May Go All the Way! New York is working on a law to make all slot machines legal. In other words, will the worm in the Big Apple turn? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial We are looking for a working definition of a slot machine. Or a collectible slot machine. Or a legal gambling device. Or…Surely someone has a better idea? 1962: The Way It Was Nevada has gone legal, again. Let’s hope it lasts! Legal Register The ultimate listing of responsible and professional attorneys with special experience. More help then we hope you need. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1985 |
COVER Don Britt sports a familiar grin as he relaxes at home. Britt has been involved with collectible coin-ops for years as an auctioneer; and now works for Bally, where he’s involved with coin-ops of the gambling kind. FEATURES He Was Gonna Be An Auctioneer Whatever Don Britt had planned on being when he grew up, he’s probably already done been it. He’s that kind of person. Went from ratpacker to policeman, to owner of a pawn shop, to slot collector, auctioneer, appraiser and consultant to the famous. We chart this fascinating story to the top of Bally distributing of Nevada. Chapter 677: California Slot Machine Statutes The complete text of the new slot machine laws as they currently stand in the State of California. The Denver Slot Machine Fair Orin Yeager said this year’s edition of the Denver area show was admittedly small, but infinitely worthwhile, especially for those who love collectable slots. As this report shows, Orin was right. Fortuitous Family Finds Marshall Fey has come upon a couple of very interesting historical artifacts that lend even more impressive bulk to the weight of his legendary family history. In his inimitable style, Marshall tells all about the discovery of his father’s rotary engine, and a very cleverly designed solenoid operated mint vender. I Just Want a Jukebox for My Den Russell Ofria opens a series of articles on the whys and wherefores of jukeboxes with this look at all the reasons why someone would want such a machine. The All-American Collectors Show The show is held twice a year, and tends to draw all the biggest fans of toys, games, old advertising and the like. A visit this year revealed the beginnings of the substantial coin machine group. We take a look. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial With all the words and pictures, the story should be clear as a bell. And now that the battle is over, the retrospective view is promising. From the chaos of AB 1202, comes the consensus of previously opposing interests. Bookshelf A quick look at those humorous and informative self –help gaming books from the irrepressible Tony Korfman, the man who eats glowing meatloaf. Classified Advertising Legal Register The one-and-only such service presented anywhere by anyone, this listing puts the names and numbers of legalistic specialists right in your very own hands. For the help you most want in your times of most need. |
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November |
1985 |
COVER Sandy Peterson takes charge of the action at John’s Antiques one of the nearly 200 exhibitors at the 1985 Fun Fair, largest in seven years! Merchandise was in stunning array, and the thousands who visited had a delightful spree! FEATURES The 1985 Loose Change Fun Fair It was another “best ever” time for those who could make it to the 1985 edition of the biggest little slot show in the world. For those who were there, here’s a memory jogger for the good times; for those unfortunate who could not attend, a taste of the fun fair you missed. The Capehart Story: Part I Russ Ofria tells the story of the beginnings of the Capehart musical coin machine industry and the personal story of the man behind the name and the line. A fascinating look at the world Capehart lived in and the steps in his climb to fame. Bally Slot Machines New-Models Party It was an invitation only event, and the beauties were lined up in flashy display while everyone who was anyone mingled. Our man on the scene tells little about the whos but everything you’ll want to know about the whats: those brand new Bally slot machines! The Slot at War: One Soldier’s View Fond recollections of a best buddy, from a veteran who served his time in Viet Nam as a medic and found he needed the sort of unquestioning friendship and companionship a Mills machine could provide. The Fey SILVER DOLLAR A most interesting machine, the Fey SILVER DOLLAR was probably the first slot machine to be put together using everybody else’s parts. Could this be the original, first ever reproduction machine? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial Part of it had to do with the Fun Fair and all it represents; another part of it had to do with the increased fervor noted recently among coin machine lovers. From one machine to the many; from fan to fanatic; we keep making our way back to slots. 1964: The Way It Was The snow filled winds of winter come howling down around the mountain passes into Reno/Lake Tahoe in 1964 as the new for lane highway begins to service its purpose: carrying passengers safely into and our of his gamin center. Classified Advertising Legal Register An exclusive service of this magazine, this listing provides you with the resources to confront any legal issue which concerns you. Special attorneys are ready and willing to help with your legal questions about slot machines. |
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December |
1985 |
COVER Jim Schafer stands proudly with two of his manufactured cowboy character figures, legitimate reissues of Frank Polk originals. Schafer now owns all rights to the line. He’s the one in the middle. FEATURES Polk figures: Bringin’ ‘Em Back Alive! This is a very smart man for one so young. Jim Schafer’s story is as fascinating as those Frank Polk reissues he has all the rights in the world to. We bring you the whole fascinating story behind the deal that made history. Picture this! Antique Cowboys Frank Polk and Everett Brisendine have shared 55 years of ropin’, ridin’ and round-ups. Two legendary figures in an admiring character study, taken from their own works. The Nickelodeon King An appreciative view of Ken Caulkins, brains and brawn behind the Ragtime Automated Musical Piano Company, How and why the man does what he does. Jennings’ Big Li’l BUCKAROO What’s all the fuss and bother? This is not ordinary member of the long line of Indian-headed CHIEFs we’ve all come so familiar with. This is a four reel spinning cowboy come lately that made it to the big-time. The Capehart Story: Part II More on Homer Capehart and the Packard manufacturing Company, from Russ Ofria. The story of the man and his coin-operated music machines. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk Ramblin’ Dan’l is back at the desk this month, taking a nostalgic look rearward at the year that was 1985: the worst, the best and all the rest. You know how opinionated the man is…who and what made his heart beat faster during 1985? The Big Guy tells all. 1928: The Way It Was A New Your Supreme court Justice has determined that the AUTOMATIC SALESMAN slot machine is not a gambling device after all, and has enjoined police from interfering with the operation of the slot. Is it or isn’t it? That is the Question! Classified Advertising Legal Register Need an attorney with expertise handling your special problems? This exclusive listing of professionals is your very best bet for competent help when you most need it. Don’t trust your litigation to any other than the best, those men and women who resister with us. |
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January |
1986 |
COVER The faces are those of the Harrises, Bill and Rosanna, two of the hobby’s most notable longtimers. The Harrises used to publish a coin-op magazine, now turn energies to many varied arts and enterprises. FEATURES Bill and Rosanna: Blueprint for Success A close up look at the Harrises, an integral part of the history of slot machine collecting in this country. The story of how they came into the collecting community and what they have done there is a fascinating one. From publishing The Coin Slot, to making their own character figures, Bill and Rosanna know how to do almost anything. Jukeboxes: Their Golden Years Lovers of jukeboxes tend to classify collectible machines in terms of the era in which they were produced. One of these is the so call Golden Age, a period between about 1937 and 1948. The jukeboxes of this period are classis collective, popular in their own time as well as in ours. A look at the golden industry during the height of its promise. By Law: A Child Safe Show Dr. Harold Gluck joins us again this month with an informative view of your legal responsibilities as a show sponsor and/or exhibitor. What should be on to avoid legal problems when you admit minors to your show or sale? There’s something you should know. Forgotten man: Dick Raven’s Story Unless you have been involved in the inside track of the gaming machine industry for the past decade or more, you probably don’t know this man. Yet, he created not only his own slot machines, but companies to produce them. We introduce you to a most remarkable individual; tell you about his machines and how he got here from there. EXPERIMENTAL: Harrah’s Idea Of A Slot There once was a man with a good idea for a slot machine. He name was Bill Harrah. The man and his idea produced an experimental facility just so he could make the dreams realities. The story of the Harrah EXPERIMENTAL, a 1970s classic that hardly anyone knows about. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of the magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are prone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. |
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February |
1986 |
COVER Alan Miss, long time member of the slot machine industry, is also a long time friend of the hobby. This month Alan shares his experiences as one of Nevada’s Bally Boys. FEATURES Bally’s Alan Maiss: Great View From The Top It’s been a long time and hard haul, but Alan Maiss has certainly made it to the top of a very high heap. We take a close look at the man and tell the story of how this one time financial consultant, stockbroker, and casino operator, got out the women’s knitwear business and into the arms of Bally. We also take a look at Bally from the inside out. Hole’s SNAKEs: Serpentine Slot Machines It started out as a passing fancy; a side glance interest in snakey front slot machines that Harry Hoke made. It turned into an historian’s dream (or nightmare) as the pieces of a most unusual slot machine puzzle gradually fell into place. Rediscovering the many snakes and many fronts of Mr. Harry H. Hoke, Jr. Wurlitzer’s Pre-Jukebox Years The Rudolph Wurlitzer Company hasn’t always been the manufacturing giant familiar to jukebox and phonograph enthusiasts. There were the early years, when the company had to strengthen the name it came with and establish itself in a very fickle industry. Russ Ofria presents the first part several to chronicle the growth and development of the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company. Bally’s M/742: A Honey For The Money The Model 742 was introduced in 1963 as a MONEY HONEY, Bally’s first new slot in more than a decade. We look at the machine that revolutionized the industry and established precedent or other modern machine manufacturers. Included are photos and a listing of the more then 42 known MONEY HONEY spawned variations. There may have been more then 115 manufactured in all. How a little blonde kid won the West. Harrah’s Secret Slot Shop Now that we don’t have to keep the secret anymore, we can take you all behind the scenes of an experimental lab/shop set up by Mr. William Harrah for the express purpose of designing singularly unique and innovative slot machines. A personal tour in word and pictures, of the experimental lab that Harrah built. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are prone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. |
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March |
1986 |
COVER The Watling O.K. VENDER takes a bow this month in a spotlight on the Watling Mfg. Co. Model No. 24, cast iron vender with immense presence and built in security against summary confiscation. Watling’s Model 24 O.K. Deluxe An exciting, in depth examination of one cast iron lovely, the Watling O.K. DELUXE. A beautiful machine with shiny exterior and most unique coin handling system, the Watling O.K. DELUXE is Model Number 24. But, can we get the mech out? Wurlitzer’s Early Years During the 1930s and early 1940’s, Rudolph Wurlitzer Company went through numerous alterations in policy and procedure in attempts to adapt to an ever changing economic environment. The market rose and fell with almost predictable regularity and it took men of singular vision to keep the company on top. Honest Johns: Putting Up False Fronts Honest John machines were introduced just at the turn of the century in this country. They were named for the feature that defined them as unique among all other floor wheel machines of the period, their openly exposed stop wheel and ratchet arm. Was it honest? We shall see…. Picking Up The Pieces Of Our Past What was it like back then? When the Mills Boys were turning out four of every five slot machines? When talk of racketeers ran rampant and the slot industry was a virtual hotbed of nefarious activity? When part of the expenses of a good speakeasy was a healthy contribution to the local police for “protection?” It was in all the papers and we have them. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial She is so naïve. Thought everybody that was anybody knew at least a little about slot machines. Whew! Take a look at what they’re saying about us in the Times! 1902: The Way It Was First, there was this Shultze fellow with a phenomenal machine and the patent for its production. Then, there was D.N. Schall who copied that patent and got one of his own. And then, last, but certainly for from least, there as Tom Watling, who snatched up the Schall business, slots, lines and patents. That’s how it happened in 1902 when the Watling name won the war of games. Bookshelf An eminently readable series abut winning at those casino games we all love but don’t want to lose at. John Gollehon tells how to win at keno, blackjack, craps, and even gives hints about wise slot play. Classified Advertising Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. Here are the nations finest for the legal systems thorniest. |
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April |
1986 |
COVER Gaming is bigger than ever, and Americans are playing more than ever before. But now, with the lottery as competition, the gaming industry must pull out all the stops to keep the attention of the playing public! FEATURES MEGABUCKS: A New Idea For Nevada It may have been the lottery in California that was ultimately responsible for the development of this latest gaming innovation in Nevada. Stunning offspring of the IGT family, MEGABUCKS is a statewide linkup of progressive slots that is not only promising multi-million dollar jackpots, but is promising more of them then ever before. Here’s how the big debut was staged. The Gaming Business Show For those of you could not be there, here’s a guided tour of the 1986 International Gaming Business Exposition, held in Las Vegas the first week in March. It’s a show of a different sort, featuring displays of all types of gaming equipment and accessories from companies around the world, and this year, Mead Publishing was there in a booth all its own. A fun look at the business of gaming, from the inside out. Baseball Bells: Major League Machines So, What makes a slot machine a BASEBALL slot machine? It doesn’t vend baseball you know! And it is not actually a singular machine model. Once again we have entered the realm of the clever revamp; of attachments and accessories; of fronts and facades that can fool you. The first intelligently comprehensive overview of a pseudo-genre collectible. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf A very special feature this month as we look at what Professor I. Nelson Rose believes is important about the world of gambling and the laws that govern it. The first truly intellectual, academically fortified, treatment of this topic to hit the industry. Don’t’ miss what we have to say about what the Professor had to say. 1940: The Way It Was The first of April and hope springs eternal in the passionate breast of youth. It is amid such pleasures that we allow our heads to be turned; our fancies fired. And it was just such a spring that brought me news of the Norton KANGAROO, an Australian floor machine that was one of the best kept secrets in the industry. Classified Advertising Legal Register Our listing of law professionals is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are prone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. |
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May |
1986 |
COVER The modest demure of the DOMINO is misleading in several directions. This slot machine has a dice game theme and much more to it than meets the eye. A paradox in a box, says our author. FEATURES Of Dice & Men & Dominoes The DOMINO machine keeps coming up in the conversations of collectors who like unique and rare machines with mysteries attached. Here’s one that is definitely different, a paradox in a box. Unraveling the fascinating facets of the DONIMO! Wurlitzer Weathers the War Another in the ongoing saga of the mighty Wurlitzer Company and all it has gone through in its evolution as one of the World’s preeminent manufacturers of coin operated music machines. The chapter takes in the years during World War II, when Wurlitzer had to shelve some of its primary functions just o keep up. Those Invidious Videos One of our regular correspondents reports that the eye of The Lawmen at upon us. The object of their attention right now seems to be those slot machines with a video look, ones that may or may not be payout types. What are these enforcement officials being told about those invidious video slots? What Are You Buying? Legal Eagle Dr. Harold Gluck returns with another informative piece on how to be careful of specialty purchases and still make a good deal or two. It has to do with buying “as is“ and distinguishing between recons and looking guarantees in the teeth before making any hasty decisions. A piece of the legal action advice for better or worse. Legal States Update Usually we don’t do this more than once a year, but there have been some significant changes in the laws affecting slot machine possession in some states. We wanted you to know these things before the next show and sale. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Editorial We couldn’t tell you this in the last issue, because the last issue was slowed to a stop by production problems. Now we can assure you that we are still very much alive! Product Review We have some video tapes that purport to help any serous gamer discover the tricks of the trade. Not how to play the games; understand, but how to discover whether or not you are being cheated. Is turn about really fair play? Classified Advertising Legal Register An exclusive and selective listing of attorneys interested in helping you with those special legal difficulties to which we are periodically subject. The best that can be had, for those unwilling to settle for less. |
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June |
1986 |
COVER Something borrowed turns into something new, as the IGT S-SLOTS hit the market with a resounding ail of coins. This latest development in gaming machines owes a lot to the experience of IGT over the years! FEATURES How IGT Spells Success: S-L-O-T-S For IGT the fun of The fortune is in making slots and putting them out to play. The latest from this visionary company is a line of slot machines combining the best of the old and the new, the formidably appealing S-SLOT. These machines have borrowed some thinks from the popularly established line of IGT FORTUNE machines, but are also on the market’s cutting edge! We feature this fine line of slots in comprehensive text and photographs that include details of the manufacturing process. The most in depth look at IGT and its machines ever. 21st Century Jukebox The New Wave of the future for jukeboxes has washed ashore with the coming of Videobox and its accessories. This latest entry in the race to be first with the best of the rest, neither looks nor sounds like any other jukebox you have ever experienced. With its laser disc functioning and multi-monitor capabilities, Videobox just made more music machine history. A report on the tuneful coin-op of the 21st century, and what it all means. Spotting Shoplifters at Show & Sales Once again, Dr. Harold Gluck honors us with an inside look at the way to tell honest customers from the other kind. With his background in both law and law enforcement, Gluck realistically presents the possible attitudes and behaviors of those who may be out to put the finger on you and your show goods. All the tactic and techniques , to keep seller from learning lessons the expensive way. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising Legal Register Our listing of law professional is an exclusive service of this magazine, for the sole benefit of our readers. For those very special problems slot machine collectors are prone to, an understanding and competent attorney is waiting to lend you a legal hand. |
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July |
1986 |
COVER The Mills SILVER CUP story includes machines of the same name from Fey and Caille, and variations of other machines from Mills. Visually striking, the SILVER CUP seems to have the face of an owl! FEATURES Counter Wheel Winner: SILVER CUP The Mills boys did come out with a stunning double dialed counter machine with the name SILVER CUP, but once again, theirs was not the first of that model line. The story of the progression of SILVER CUP counter wheel machines. From Fey who started it all off, through the Cailles who kept the name going in near identical copy cat modes, and on to the Mills company, the confusing and convoluted lineage of SILVER CUPs some that were BROWNIEs, and maybe a CHECK BOY thrown in for good measure. Wurlitzer: After the War Was Over The ongoing saga of the Wurlitzer company’s march toward the music machine fame continues with this look at the postwar period. Author, Russ Ofria, presents the situations and circumstances surrounding the introduction of the famous Wurlitzer 1015, and the subsequent launching of an advertising campaign the likes of which had never before been experienced by the American people or the automatic phonograph machine industry. What they did and where it took them. Spilling the Old Advertising Beans What a pleasure to have the noted Kovels, Ralph and Terry, antiques authorities of the highest caliber, with us again. This time the premier pair of pricing bring us fascinating and delightfully enlightening pieces of the past in the form of a trivia quiz for old advertising buffs. Who put toothpaste in tubes and why? Who put milk in cans? What famous person coined the phrase, “Good to the last drop!” and for what product. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Bookshelf A review of the pamphletted book that seeks to present a guide to those Silver Age jukeboxes of the 1950s and 1960s. Beginning as an import, this book is short on pages but long on reprinted photos and details of certain model music machines. How we liked it, and where you can get it if you want it. Legal Register The chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with our thornier legal problems. A unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
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August |
1986 |
COVER When the Meads blew into the Windy City, they were met by some of the hobby’s foremost Midwestern members. A tour of that Toddlin’ Town, as represented by some of these fine folks. FEATURES Mr. Z Makes Taking Chances Pay Off The story of one man and his passion for coin-op slots, with inside information on how that man turned his pleasures into business. Frank Zygmunt and his family were visited by the Meads during their stop in Chicago recently, and they came back with a most fascinating story; of a man who may go to any lengths to bring ‘em back reelin’. Talking Shop With The Krahls Tom and Holly Krahl were gracious enough to show the Meads around their place, which is a parts lover’s paradise. Word and pictures on this cagey, clever couple, who have survived where others couldn’t, and forged a successful business venture where others wouldn’t. Bells Of A Big Bad Wolf The man is Zeke Wolf and the name most often linked with him is Auto-Bell Novelty. A most unusual tale of more than half a c century in the bell-building business; of personal contacts with the Watlings, the Mills boys, Pace, Baker and the rest; of spending one’s entire life in the service of coin-op gaming machine interests. The last of a legendary line becomes the embodiment of the past in this living history. The last Waltz For Wurlitzer The culmination of Russell Ofria’s four parts series on the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company, jukebox manufacturing giant. As the company celebrated its centennial with high hopes, the shadows were already beginning to gather around an industry in the throes of high tech evolution. How they sang that last song. DEPARTMENTS News Brief Mailbox The Publisher’s Desk The man worried about going to Chicago, then found out what was really bothering him about the trip. Dan Mead explains the jist of this issue’s Chicago focus and rambles a bit about his personal paranoia. Bookshelf The latest offering from Ralph and Terry Kovel, a price guide to collectible advertising items. Just published this summer, the book includes manufacturing histories, listing of clubs and periodicals, as well as dollar values for tins, trays and thermometers. Thermometers? Classified Advertising Legal Register The best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. A regular, exclusive offering of this magazine. |
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September |
1986 |
COVER High flying collectible, the classic EAGLE takes the slot spotlight this month. Not exactly a winner in its own time, the EAGLE, now an endangered species, has found a cozy nest among collectors. FEATURES Eagles/Others: Singing A Counter Drum Song Counter drum (single reel) slot machines represent one of the important planks in the historical bridge from countertop card machines used as trade stimulators, to the countertop slot machines used as games of chance and amusement. In this article we will explore the development of this unique type of slot machines… a type which has not revived in the modern world of gaming. Update: Legal States For Slot Machines Our traditional yearly of legal states for slot machine collectors reveal which states’ legislators have been slot busy and which have not. The Beginnings: Automatic Music Machines Music for a coin? You bet…from player piano to jukebox. In this “jukebox” article we will explore the coin phonographs (they weren’t called jukeboxes yet), that led to the direct development of the jukebox. Rosanna Harris’ Rocky Mountain Expo Remember that woman who used to publish that other magazine? Now she’s in show business, her own show. The First Annual Rocky Mountain Expo was termed a success by everyone who attended. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register The chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. A unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1986 |
COVER In the limelight this month is Tom Noel and his daughter Naomi, at the Eighth annual Loose change Fun Fair. This year’s fun Fair was rated the best yet. FEATURES The 1986 Loose Change Fun Fair This year’s Loose Change Fun Fair was the most successful yet, featuring a brand new floor plan, more booths and more hardly ever seen merchandise. It was another “most fun we ever had” event for those who could attend. For those who were there, here’s a memory jogger for the good times. For those who couldn’t make it, here’s a taste of the fun you missed at the world’s largest show of its kind, the Eighth Annual Loose Change Fun Fair. Please Do Not Handle Here’s a somewhat thought provoking look at those little signs you seem to always see at antique shows. What is not apparent at first glance is the legal implication s for the visitor as well as the exhibitor. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
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January |
1989 |
COVER The great grandson of the notorious Jefferson Randolph Smith, better known as Soupy, tells all about one of America’s most lovable rascals and boss of the Northwest underworld. FEATURES The Life and Time of Soapy Smith Join us for a romp through the life of America’s most lovable scoundrel and colorful scalawag. His gambling devices and other artifacts have been handed down three generations and will soon become part of a museum. Changing The Law Unhappy with the laws of your state covering ownership of slot machines? Why don’t you change them? This article tells how it was done in Colorado. Is It A Business, Or Is It Just For Fun? Do you really have a business, or are you stretching a pont for tax reasons? This short piece will tell you exactly how the I.R.S. will judge you. Las Vegas: The Early Days This fascinating account by a veteran historian tells how the present day Las Vegas began. And it only happened 85 years ago. International Gaming Business Exposition Larger than ever, this important 1987 trade show for the gaming industry was filled with new slot machine innovations. Legal States For Slot Machines Here is our most up to date listing of legal stated for slot machines. Many changes have occurred in the last few years, so check your status now. Bally’s New Product Party Always fun and informative, this year’s New Products had still a few more innovations worthy of notice. Legality Of Slot Machines Worldwide Have you ever wondered how many other countries have legalized gaming, slot machines in particular? The list is simply astounding. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Book Shelf Two new books are reviewed. One is about the behind the scene business of gaming, the other is for gumball machine enthusiast. Product Review An interesting assortment of new products includes a simulated craps game for your computer, a lottery calculator and a device for concealing a hand gun in your office or store. Classified Advertising |
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February |
1989 |
COVER The greatest auction event is the Victorian Casino Antiques auction. It’s presented by Roy Arrington, the granddaddy of collectors, he’s been doing it for the last 26 years FEATURES Victorian Casino Antiques Auction Roy Arrington, oh yes, he’s that fellow that hold that fancy auction out in Las Vegas every year. But the auctions are really the end of the story. The real story began over 25 years ago, when Roy became probably the world’ largest collector of antiques slot machines. Almost more fascinating is the story of why he came to Las Vegas in the first place, and how he became such a large collector of the marvelous merchandise fro which his auctions are now noted. So join us now for a look back in time, a look at the beginnings of a man who can truly be called coin-ops Mr. Showmanship: Roy Arrington and the Victorian Casino Antiques auctions. The Tenth Annual Loose Change Fun Fair After a decade of success, the past Loose change Fun Fair tipped the scales as the largest yet. With more visitors, more exhibitors and more merchandise than ever before, this fantastic event certainly live up to its advertising as the world largest. But don’t take our word for it, read what the exhibitors themselves had to say about this blockbuster event. For Amusement Only Why would a slot machine refuse to pay on a winning combination, and then tell you that you had to play it again to receive what you were already supposed to have won? Ridiculous, you say? Then how about one equipped with buttons so you can stop the reels anywhere you want? Well, the answer is simple, well; no maybe it’s not so simple. Actually, the type of slot machines we’re talking about were for amusement only, according to the sign. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Book Shelf Classified Advertising |
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March |
1989 |
COVER The BABY LINCOLN, one of two Lincoln style bell machines, was a transitional machine for Watling, bridging the gap between the Operator Bell and the Blue Seal series. FEATURES Conquering Tom Watling’s Confusion Quick, what slots did Watling manufacture? Uh, ROL-A-TOP, uh, BLUE SEAL, uh, well I don’t know. No wonder you can’t name more. The confusion caused by Watling’s style numbers and double names for the same machine, has caused many a collector to throw up his hands in despair. Perhaps this article will help restore order to what has been chaos. Watling’s Counter Style Slot Machines Attention, Watling enthusiasts! Here’s just what you’ve been looking for: a listing of all Watling’s counter style slot machines, complete with published reference so you can read more about the ones that interest you. Also included are the dates of introduction and other interesting notes. A Quick History of Slot Machines For the newcomers, here’s an article written on an easy to understand level. Highlighted are the various development stages of slot machines. The International Gaming Business Expo This year’s offering of tools of the trade for the gaming industry included some new slot machines innovations and refinement of the old. Arizona’s Accidental Casinos Casinos. No licenses. No Commissions or Control Boards. Sounds like a page of history right out of the old west, doesn’t it? It’s in Arizona; it’s a gambler’s dream come true. But it’s an excellent example of how not to legalize gambling. Fey’s LIBERTY BELL: What Really Happened Gathering up the myths and sorting them out, that’s what the great grandson of the inventor of the first three reel, payout slot machine is doing. He has a lot to work with; many myths have been cast. But he’s finally found some truth. And here’s what really happened. Paulson Dice & Card Dice, chips, tables, layouts. Where does it all come from? One of the places is Paulson Dice & Card. This industry profile gives an inside look at the interesting aspects of manufacturing the tools of the trade. Prices: Victorian Casino Antiques Auctions Here is a categorized lit of bid prices for the last five Victorian Casino Antiques Auctions, from November 1986 through September 1988. There are 1,080 prices covering slot machines, trade stimulators, jukeboxes and other interesting related items. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Book Shelf Classified Advertising |
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April |
1989 |
COVER Television producer Glen Larson with his silver dollar Mills TWENTIETH CENTURY, receives an approving smile from Heather Tomas. FEATURES The Glen Larson Story The movies! The very word is thrilling, the house lights dimming, and right before our eyes on the silver screen is a slot machine. Believe it or not, that’s how television producer Glen Larson discovered slot machines; he found one on his own set for the popular Fall Guy series. He just had to have one. And more is what he has. And the best news is he’s sharing some of his collection with us this month as well as a behind the scenes look at the motion picture industry. The Great Indian Gambling Pow Wow O.K. Here’s the deal. If you are an Indian, you can conduct a gambling enterprise on the reservation. Why? Because Uncle Sam says you can. And he’ll even put up matching funds. Sound too good to be true? It isn’t! This is probably one of the most interesting aspects of gambling law to come along in a long time. Some states are unhappy; but you can bet your paleface, the Indians aren’t going to pass the peace pipe on this one. Victorian Casino Antiques Auction Report Here’s the report you’ve been waiting for on Roy Arrington’s Victorian Casino Antiques Auction, the one that featured the Caille MIXED TRIPLET. Also featured was more, more, more of the fantastic Stan Harris Collection. Included in our special report are nearly 500 bid prices for the slots, Trade stimulators, gaming items and other things you are most interested in. Tricky This guy bought a slot machine for, well, he wouldn’t say. But he sold it a few years later for less than $100. And he says he was happy to get the money! Can this really be true? Yes. Find out why. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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May |
1989 |
COVER Bally’s Bob Harpling and Doc Kaufmann bask in the glow of the GOLDEN GAMBLER, a modern day version of on older success, the MISSISSIPPI GAMBLER. FEATURES We Remember Bally We recently found two long time employees of Bally Manufacturing Corporation who remembered some tidbits for the past. They both sat down and talked to Loose Change for over an hour, telling some of the highlights of their company and experience from their gaming past. Between them thy represent 70 years of Bally-who. The Case Of The Stolen Jukebox In legalese it’s called collateral estoppel. For collectors it could be another tool to deal with stolen antiques, slot machine, jukeboxes, trade stimulators, and the like. The One Armed Band-Aid It’s pure fiction, of course. But just imagine the stories a casino slot machine could tell about the various players and casino panhandlers, if only it could talk. This machine talks and tells why some folks win, and why others don’t. Cheating The Small Time Gambler It’s America’s favorite pastime, complaining about taxes. It’s a no-no to cheat the IRS, but when the IRS cheats us, it’s all in the name of regulations. But these regulations cheat the small time gambler. In fact, the high roller actually has the advantage. Loosening The Law Against Sweepstakes You get them nearly every week, “You may already won ten million dollar!” It’s always the other guy that wins, of course, but because of changes in sweepstakes laws, you’ll probably get getting more “winning” mail in the future, not less. How much have you won? Collecting Gambling Debts Better read this before you think about hanging a gambling debt on your favorite (or most hated) casino. They can come and legally get you, even if you’re from a different country. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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June |
1989 |
COVER The dinosaurs of slot machines are the triple floor machines f the early twentieth century. Some still live and breathe. This Caille belongs to Las Vegas casino owner Gene Maday. FEATURES Tracking Down The Triples They’re so rare most slot machine enthusiasts have never seen one. Others have, perhaps, seen one, no more. For such a rare machine, however, a fair number still exist. This article examines the various triplets known to exist, tells you who owns what and where they are located. The Coming Sports Betting Tidal Wave Few people today believe betting in itself is immoral or, for that matter, even harmful. Within five years, this author predicts, we will see advertisements for sports books connected to horse race teletheaters, sports betting by mail, state and charitable lotteries selling sports cards and the like. The Butterfield & Butterfield Auction San Francisco was the backdrop for one of the largest California coin-op auctions in over a decade. This auction rated mixed reviews, depending on who you talk to. This report includes a complete list of bid prices, nearly 500, including no sale items. Congress Rewrites The Law They’ve done it again, passed a law to accomplish one thing, and opened the door to something else. It’s the new “Lottery Advertising Clarification Act,” designed to allow the advertising of legal lotteries in states which have lotteries. This new law will affect everyone. Find out who will be the big winners, and who will be the big losers. Are You Prepared For An Unexpected Holdup? The word gets around; you’ve built a nice collection, and perhaps a nice business around the collection. And word gets around that you’re a good guy to deal with. But then word gets to the wrong person, one with a holdup in mind. What do you do, what can you do? Quite a lot actually, but only if you are prepared. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
| January/February | 1990 |
COVER
FEATURES MONEY HONEY, How Can You Forget Her?
Nevada Draws The Line On New Miss Slots
The 1989 Loose Change Fun Fair
Gambling Boom! Gambling bust?
Victorian Casino Antiques Auction
American Coin's Cheatin' Pokers
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
The Publisher's Desk
Legal Register
Classified Advertising
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March |
1990 |
COVER Everyone thought Bugsy Siegel was crazy when he built the Flamingo in the middle of the desert. Today it’s right at the center of the famous Las Vegas Strip. FEATURES Bugsy Siegel And His Desert Palace? It was an unlikely place for a casino, or much of anything else, right in the middle of the desert, and miles from downtown Las Vegas. But Benjamin “Bugsy” Siegel raised the money and built the first resort hotel and casino on the highway leading into Las Vegas, now called the strip. He called his new desert palace the Flamingo. Bugsy is no longer with us, but the fascinating story of his life remains; so does his famous casino, now called the Flamingo Hilton. The Mirage If ever there was a long awaited grand opening in Las Vegas, it must surely have been the opening of the Mirage. With the famous Siegfried and Roy white tigers on display, dolphins (scheduled to arrive by summer), cascading water falls, tropical rain forest and live volcano performing at regular intervals, it must certainly be the eighth wonder of the world… at least that’s what they say. Video Poker Stirs Up Controversy Are video poker machines legal? We’re not talking about licensed casinos in Nevada or Atlantic City. We’re talking about the thousands of bars and amusement halls across the country. Police and prosecutors say no; the operators say yes; the courts are split. A Slot Machine With Seniority There was this little market, right behind a large casino. And inside there was a Mills BLACK CHERRY slot machine, licensed and operating. It’s been running since the store was built, about 1946 or so. Well now, isn’t that about the time the BLACK CHERRY was introduced? Future of Gambling Lies In California Surprisingly, the future of casino gambling was recently decided by trial judges in a state with no casino gambling, California. Bally’s Model 802 QUICK DRAW “Draw when ya feel lucky!” That’s what this unique counter-model slot machine seems to say to the player. If you live in a 25 year state, you can own one in just two short years. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1990 |
COVER California dreaming takes on happy dimensions for Gene Crawford as he finds himself surrounded by some of the Golden State’s most choice slot machines from the Bill Rhodes collection. FEATURES Antique Slot Machines Are No Gamble David Saul, author of The Slot Machine Buyer’s Handbook, discusses many of the features of antique slot machines which are valued by collectors. Consideration is given to design, models, manufacturers and types of machines. Also pointed out are some of the undesirable features which make certain machines less attractive. Certain pitfalls that should be avoided when purchasing slot machines are also discussed. The St. Louis Slot Machine Company The Gateway to the West is also the way to a new life for old slot machines. Boasting an inventory of over two hundred slot machines, owners Tom Kolbrener and Jeff Frahm are ready to restore just about anything resembling a slot machine that comes through the door. The New Spring Loose Change Fun Fair It was only a test. For the first time in twelve years, the world famous Loose Change Fun Fair presented a spring show. The hall was nearly sold out, and the crowds were almost as large as the fall show. The test is over; now there will be two Fun Fairs each year. Bankrupt Resorts and the Casino Industry Atlantic City has had two major resort casinos file for bankruptcy. That represents a seventeen percent failure rate. Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose discusses some of the reason and the reasoning behind these failures. Regulation 14 On September 25, 1989, the Nevada Gaming Control Board amended and expanded regulations known as Regulation 14. The Regulation has far reaching impact on anyone buying or selling to the Nevada slot machine market. You Can’t Take It With You Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose discusses the strange case of Leonard H. Wolff, a gambler who died owing a casino money. A Nevada court has decided that dead men must pay their gambling debts. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register Here’s your chance to be referred to a specialist who can and willingly will help you with your thornier legal problems. This listing is a unique service offered by this magazine and these proud professionals. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1990 |
COVER The grace and elegance of hand crafted oak combined with Classic Video’s modern, state of the art technology makes a pretty picture indeed. FEATURES Video Draw Poker Machines… America’s Coin-Operated Gambling Craze. In many ways, video draw poker machines are like hand dealt blackjack games. By understanding the game, knowing the most advantageous methods of play, and using these skills without allowing the human emotion to interfere, the odds of the game can be turned it the favor of the player. This article deals with an introduction to the game, which games favor the player, and the most advantageous methods of play. At the end of the article are a few simple rules which will allow you to play a better, and perhaps a more profitable, game on your favorite video draw poker machine. London’s ATEI Show…The Greatest Show on Earth, Or Anywhere Else It’s called the Amusement Trade Exposition International. But it’s probably the world’s most elaborate display of gambling machines, gambling equipment, amusement machines and related products and services. It’s held in London early each year which makes its attendance fairly difficult for most Americans. This article, although not a substitute for being there, will save many dollars and at least a week of your time. But it will also offer a preview for when you can attend. Crap, A Game On Shaky Ground It’s an old game; much older than any of us. But younger gamblers are passing up this game. The question is why? Craps is certainly the most exciting of all live casino games, and it offers excellent odds to those who know which are the best plays. In fact, the best plays are the easiest to learn. This report examines why you seldom see younger players at the casino craps tables. Rigging The Lotteries Insiders have played havoc with the stock market. Can insiders also rig the various state lotteries? It’s been tried, in many clever ways, and those who have tried have been caught. Or have they? Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose tells us about some of the more clever attempts. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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June |
1990 |
COVER This happy crew represents those from Reno and Tahoe who couldn’t be present for this photograph in the Las Vegas showroom of Aancient Slots and Antiques. FEATURES Aancient Slot of Nevada Some pronounce it A Ancient. Others simply say Ancient. But Mike Stone, the company’s founder, pronounces it SUCCESS! Mike Stone stumbled into the gaming industry quite by accident; but today his name is well known, not only as owner of Aancient Slots and Antiques, but in the industry itself. International Gaming Business Expo IGBE is probably America’s largest display of gambling machines, equipment, and related products and services. It’s an insider’s show; but with Loose Change, you have an exclusive look at what to expect at your favorite casino. The Mills F.O.K. WISE CRACKER You take an old standard slot machine; put some ethnic reel strips on it, and a couple of new signs, and, wow, a new slot machine. Really? That’s what Mills Novelty Company said. And that’s what some collectors say, who have come across them lately. You make the decision, but after you read this article. Gambling And The Law: The Decade In Review From the state of the lottery to the last great Indian war, Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose reviews the last ten years and tell what to expect in the future. What Resorts’ Bankruptcy Means To Gamblers Several major casinos have filed for bankruptcy. What does it all mean for the player, the gambler? Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose tells what Atlantic City’s Resorts’ closure means to the average gambler. Dealers Suing Casinos Employers have called it “Biting the hand that feeds them.” Whatever you call it, win, lose or draw, nobody really wins. But in the gambling business, employees just didn’t sue the boss and live to tell about it, until recently. Gambling Tokens, A Precious Commodity Their use really blossomed when folks discovered that silver dollars were worth more than paper dollars. What does a casino do when players take all the silver dollars? They make their own, tokens; a precious commodity. The Slot Machine Aptitude Test An employee of Aancient Slots and Antiqes has devised his own S.A.T. (Slot Aptitude Test) test. Take it if you dare. The winner gets a mini-video poker. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register The best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1991 |
COVER One of Jake’s girls catches a B-O-N-U-S from a 1939 Mills NEW BONUS. The NEW BONUS replaced the original 1937 BONUS which had odds changing ability. FEATURES The Mills BONUS, Bonus To Who? When the Mills Novelty Company introduced the BONUS slot machine in 1937 they unwittingly unleashed the idea for the first progressive slot machine. The idea was simple; as play released the letters in the display window one by one, play was heightened. What the players didn’t know was, the machine was also a cheater. Built on the same mechanism of the FUTURITY, the BONUS “shifted gears” and went into a cheat mode. Few collectors have original BONUS; instead they have the “simplified design” introduced by Mills in 1939, the NEW BONUS. Confused? No need to be, just read about this incredible machine; all the pieces will fall into place. High Stakes Indian Blackjack The Indian Gaming Regulatory Act was supposed to settle the controversy over legal gambling on Indian reservations. Instead, the new law has raised some major new questions which apparently nobody ever thought to ask before the Act became law. Excalibur Fun, fanfares and festivities marked the June 19th opening of the Excalibur, the Las Vegas strip’s newest attraction and currently the world’s largest resort hotel and entertainment complex. Kings, Queens and lofty spires, turrets and towers greeted the visitors amidst a sprawling 117 acre site. You are there too, with this special pictorial. Evans’ KEENO, Bingo in Disguise? Few people relate the H.C. Evans Company to the manufacture of countertop slot machines. Consoles, yes; roulette wheels and dice, yes; cards and gaming equipment, yes. They even built carnival and amusement games, even loaded dice and marked cards. But not slot machines. Then up pops KEENO, an automatic payout bingo type machine. Its success was evidently short lived, however, because only one has been found. You can now have a look at it, inside and out, right here in Loose Change. Loony Laws About Coin-Operated Machines Did you know that in Pocataligo, Georgia, women are prohibited by law form wearying shiny patent leather shoes while playing a game in the local arcade? Or that folks in Lawrence Massachusetts, can be arrested for “giving the razzberries” to anyone repairing a coin-operated machine? This playful article is testimony to some poor judge’s exasperation at having to wade though a daily load of weighty issues for which, in a judicial system dictated by the law of precedent, no precedents exist. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register This exclusive list of professional attorneys can help you with the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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March |
1991 |
COVER Nora Mead has many happy memories about the Loose Change Fun Fair, which has recently been sold. This picture was taken in 1983 at the Pasadena Exhibit Center, in Pasadena California. FEATURES Fun Fair Memories “It seems like only yesterday” begins Nora Mead as she recalls the very first Loose Change Fun Fair at the Great Western Exhibit Center on October 5-6-7, 1979. For the first time thousands of people interested in slot machines, jukeboxes and similar items were able to get together and buy, sell, touch, talk and trade. Its size surprised everyone. While the show went on to become the largest event of its kind, the location was host to the show for only one time; the following spring the facility was torn down and the land used to build low cost housing. Maybe you were there, maybe you missed it. But not you can join hands with Nora Mead as she takes you for a stroll behind the scenes of this history making event. Legal States For Slot Machines During the last year and a half, there have been many changes to the slot machine laws in the United States of America. If you own a slot machine or are contemplating the purchase or sale of one, you better check you locality with this listing. Victorian Casino Antiques Auction This auction, held October 13-14, 1990, at Las Vegas’ brand new Rio Suite Hotel and Casino was one of the largest and most important of recent events presented by Roy Arrington’s Victorian Casino Antiques. The merchandise was from the now-closed Stardust Olde Tyme Gaming Museum and the personal collection of the Rio’s owner. Prices were very upscale, good for the consignor. But not for the buyers. This special report includes nearly a thousand bid prices, real information you can use. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Legal Register This best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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April |
1991 |
COVER What could be more beautiful than a secluded Mills THREE BELLS, with on of Jake’s girls? World War II, changing times and the Johnson Act effectively put an end to slot machines of this type.
FEATURES The Attraction of the “Flat-Tops” The luxurious majesty of Mills’ FOUR BELLS machines hearkens back to a time of poshy elegant night club interiors, and ultimate ease of play. The multiple chute and calamitous payouts assured the Mills Novelty Company a solid business in large and small venues alike. But when the company introduced its line of brightly lit, electrical machines, the spell over venue operators was broken, and the “flat tops” faded into history, and collectors’ esteem. See why. The First Pull Was Free! Free pulls, Barron Bucks and a dining spot by the Colorado River. What more could one ask for? How about balloons, fireworks and a laser show, too? All the stops were pulled out at the grand opening of the new Laughlin Flamingo Hilton. Loose change was there and takes you rolling on the river. S.A.T. Test Results For all of you calling in for the name of our contest winner, you are hereby notified that Phil Frey of Powell Ohio, moved to the head of the class on Jim Coleman’s Aancient Slot machine Aptitude Test (S.A.T.). A total of 11 people took the test, and all won something. For class standings, and the answers, look inside. Can Iraq Save Craps? When craps dwindled in popularity as the older crowd of World War II vets began to disappear, odds were on that craps would eventually come up “snake eyes.” But when world events threw a new crew of American solders into combat, the Arabian strictures that precluded drinking and cheesecake Photographs got the dice rolling again. But will it be enough to save the game? Marty Leona Denise lives on the edge of her life, between eternity and what has already been. Demoralized by her job, diminished in her health, Leona takes comfort from her only friend, Marty, the dime slot at Al’s Oasis. Ante up for a moody character piece of fiction. Outside The Law’s Protection Even handed justice can be hard to find for gaming establishments. Many have taken the sting from customers who escape felony raps through skewed, antique legislation. When a bad check’s payee is a casino, the crime being in the gambling business. Read how the real crook got away. Dealer Who Count Cards Whoever said blackjack dealers had to be fair? Certainly not the Nevada Gaming Control Board. According to its members, the dealer is allowed to count cards, even though the player cannot. So how does the play know that he’s getting a raw deal? Just shuffle on back to this article. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register This best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1991 |
COVER Trends in collecting have changed drastically in the last decade. Once cast iron and oak formed the basis for a collection; now a days, the more modern machines are he latest rage. FEATURES Trends In Collecting Slot Machines For nearly a hundred years, the slot machine industry has been creating inspired pieces of mechanical art. From clunkish machines in gingerbread coats to computerized, streamlined marvels, slot machines have endured a phenomenal transition. With the 1960s machines at or near 25 year legal status, how will machines values be affected? And what are the expected trends in this now standardized hobby? Get your nickel’s worth inside. The Delicate Art of Splitting Winner’s Hair When it’s time to divvy up a lottery prize, relatives and friends alike have disavowed longstanding relationships, for the sake of a few dollars more. This disheartening trend in lottery winning splits has launched a new area of gambling law. What to do when your take’s at stake? Look inside. Gambling Comes to the Eastern Bloc Czechoslovakia is a stone princess on the thaw. With the many changes of the past year and a half, she and other Soviet Bloc countries have looked to the West for direction. American icons and attitudes are warming up this tiny country and her siblings. At least, they’re ready to take a chance, lottery style. Old Shell Game Reveals new Sleights of Hand Now you see it, now you don’t. Con artist reach new lows in floating the odds of chance in their favor. Bogus gamblers, bingo stings, stacked chip cups and casino hoaxes prove there’s a lot of new life left in the oldest game. Free Drinks, Want Another? Drinking and gambling can be a heady mix, especially in the courtroom. When a gun over patron sued a casino for seducing a way his $200,000 plus through offering him drinks, the casino’s attorney took the offensive and asked the judge to throw the case out. Read how “litigator’s fallacy” almost brought the house down. Compulsive Gambling When control takes a back seat to compulsive behavior, the consequences can be alarming. Entangle that behavior with one’s economic resources, and the results are catastrophic. Learn why men, women and even teens develop this disorder, and why, in some ways, compulsive gamblers are at even greater risk than alcoholics. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register This best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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June |
1991 |
COVER When mob boss Frank “King” Costello decided to add some customer touches to his slot machines, the Mills MYSTERY FRONT VENDOR “Cross Diamond” of 1933 was the result. FEATURES Frank “King” Costello’s Slot Machine When the “King” decided on something new in a mint, it unfairly cost the Mills Novelty Company part of their reputation. The MYSTERY FRONT VENDOR that Mills designed for the mobster was Costello’s ticket to monopolizing the gray area of gaming machines. Portrait of a Crossroader The crooked deal went a long way toward fostering a community of itinerant con men that roamed across America. Their zealous search for the quick buck and an easy mark kept them in constant jeopardy, and neck deep in low life adventures. Get an inside look at one of these legendary travelers. Frank Costello Frank Costello, who was he, where was he from, these questions and many more are presented in the portrait of one of America’s most famous mobsters. Funny thing, Frank always thought of himself as a pillar of the community. Slot Machine Clubs Forget comparing oranges with apples. Just try comparing them with cherries, plum and bells from casino to casino! When it comes to slot clubs, there’s no such thing as “across the board.” Coin in, coin won, points per cash back value, premiums and services, only the most rabid shopper could filter though the maze of casino slot club offers, and come up with the leader. America’s Hate Affair With Venues of Chance As the legal system loosens up its stance against gambling on a nationwide basis, the climate still gets confusing. That legal helping hand can also throw gaming operators a mean curve with divided opinions on issues such as gambling debts, uncollected winning tickets, and the right to advertise. The Cutting Edge of Gambling Law With recessionary times intensifying, legalized gambling is on the increase, State lotteries, riverboat gambling and Indian reservation casinos are coming into their own as alternatives to the more traditional gambling activities of Nevada and New Jersey. But with this rise comes heretofore uncharted legal ground. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Product Review If you have avoided the purchase of a console slot because of bad glass, fear no more. Now there’s a company that is manufacturing replacement that looks better than the original. Legal Register This best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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July / August |
1991 |
COVER Even when Watling copied another manufacturer, they did a fine job. Counter wheels offer the collector something between floor wheels and counter bells. FEATURES Another Look at Counter Wheels This objective look at counter wheels as collectibles addresses new considerations. These machines seem to bridge the price barrier between bell slot machines and the single wheel floor models. Also included is a list of all known single wheel machines, grouped by manufacture, complete with dates of introduction and special notes. We think you’ll be surprised; there were more of these devices made then previously imagined. Riverboat Gamblers of Yesteryear Riverboat gambling is in the news constantly these days. But gambling on the rivers began over 150 years ago. This special report takes a look back, at a time when they had real riverboat gambling, just like in the movies. Nostalgia Plays On The manufacture of music rolls for pianos, band organs and orchestrions was once as common as the manufacture of phonographic records is today. But only a few folks are in the business today. Our focus is on Play-Rite, a small, central California company run by a woman 79 years young. Her company makes music rolls for virtually any music machine. Sinking Riverboats Our gaming attorney/author predicts doom for the riverboats with the existing play rules. It’s just another example of government meddling in businesses they don’t understand. Will the riverboats continue to float? He brings up some good points. Do you agree? Harrah’s Says Another Goodbye The recent Stremmel auction in Reno Nevada sold some interesting items at even more interesting prices. The closing of Harrah’s experimental shop forced the sale of the EXPERIMENTAL slot machines, a program instituted by the late William F. Harrah. Even more surprising was the low prices. In all, over 800 slot machines of all kinds were sold. We’ve include a complete list of bid prices. Cry your hears our, you’ll probably never be able to by slot machines at prices like this again. Ragtime Nickelodeons Ken and Valorie Cauklin’s company completely manufactures player pianos and orhestrions as well as kits to convert existing upright pianos. These entrepreneurs are as interesting as their products. Although their plant is only a few miles form another that manufactures music rolls, the two firms are non-related. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register The best of professional attorneys for the worst of your legal problems. Classified Advertising |
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September |
1991 |
COVER Bally made a number of “lucky” machines. This on is rather rare, only 100 are said to have been made, in Ireland, for the Australian market. FEATURES A Future For Bally? In case you haven’t heard, Bally has, by all accounts, had some serious problems. Will they solve them, or are they simply to big and cumbersome, flopping like a dying dinosaur? Only time will tell. But in the meantime, Loose Change has taken a different perspective and has some predictions. Beating “Las Vegas Nights” On the legal side, how can you win at gambling while participating in a “Las Vegas Night” party? Simple, when you know how. Our gaming attorney tells how. It’s No Longer “Adults Only” Then: Coming to Las Vegas? Leave the kids at home! Now: coming to Las Vegas? Bring the family! No longer is the entertainment capital of the world just for adults. Now enterprising casino owners and other entrepreneurs have provided something for everyone. It’s The Bank’s Fault Through a bank error, at least one enterprising fellow discovered that he could take money out of a special ATM in a certain location of a specific city for the purpose of gambling, and he doesn’t have to pay it back. The bank disagrees, of course; but according to their card contract he may have a good case. Fixing Ballys Did you know that in the large majority of cases, you can fix a Bally slot machine in less than 10 minutes with only a screwdriver and a pair of needle nose pliers? In fact, these new collectible game room machines are actually easier to fix than their mechanical predecessors. The Best of Bally “Hey,” the fellow said, “I want to buy an old Bally slot machine. Which one should I buy?” Simple question? Hardly. Bally made hundreds of different kinds, in many different styles. But this treatise brings out some basic considerations for collecting older Bally slot machines. The Strange Fellows Bally, as well as several other game manufacturers, made a special type of game with payout capability. We call them slot machines because of their payout nature; Bally called them “Bingo machines.” This introductory report tells about them and lists all the bingo machines Bally made. The Beginnings of a Stumbling Giant Everyone has heard about Bally Manufacturing Company. In fact, many of their early slot machines are prized collector’s pieces. But few know the origins of this world famous company. Here then, is a story about Bally’s beginnings. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register List of legal professionals that can help with your legal concerns. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1991 |
COVER The Jennings VICTORIA VENDER “Witch and Black Cat” is one of the most desirable slot machines for collectors today. But for the O.D. Jennings Company, this witch’s brew was a bad trick and a lousy treat. FEATURES Jennings’ Trick or Treat The O.D. Jennings Company did some trick or treating as they introduced the “Witch and Black Cat” slot machines in 1930. Formally known as the VICTORIA, they are as hard to find today as witch’s dust. What was a commercial failure in 1930 has become a top collector’s piece 60 years later. The unpopularity of this series of machines forces the O.D. Jennings Company to a complete redesign and the famous Chief series. The Future of Indian Gaming The future of American gambling is on Indian land. In a business that has gone from zero to billions of dollars a year in just a few years cannot be ignored. The establishment of a National Indian Gaming Commission and a firm legal basis for the industry will begin to attract large investors and experienced operators. Great Southern Collectible Expo Southern hospitality was the keynote for the September Great Southern Collectible Expo in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. This unique event combines the friendliness of the south with the excitement of a resort community at the entrance to the Great Smokey Mountains. The Changing Meaning of Bingo Bingo is no longer the quiet parlor game that you may remember. When the Indians won the right to offer the game without limits, the sky became the limit. The game has become so large so quickly that even devoted gamblers have failed to realize the magnitude of the change. The Cattle Baron Here was a casino that had a tough time opening. But when it did, it quickly became the jewel of Henderson, a small community south of Las Vegas. Friendliness, large game selection, excellent food and period ambience were keynotes of the Cattle Baron. Five months later the Cattle Baron closed the ranch. Beating “Las Vegas Nights” Repeated from last month, this article tells how can you win at gambling while participating in a “Las Vegas Night” party? It’s simple, when you know how. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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November |
1991 |
COVER The front page of Reno’s Nevada State Journal proclaims the signing of Nevada’s “wide-open” gambling laws. Ten years later, in the early 1940s, investors took the law seriously and began to build the first gaming resorts. They were the biggest game in town. FEATURES The Biggest Game In Town When Governor Fred B. Balzar signed Nevada’s “wide open” gambling bill on March 19, 1931, he had no idea of the far-reaching effects. The law signaled Nevada’s return the frontier days when poker, roulette and faro bank games flourished in crowded mining camps. What was originally intended to spruce up the state’s economy (in conjunction with a six weeks divorce measure) has, of course, turned Las Vegas into what has been called “the entertainment capital of the world.” But the beginnings of the mega-resort business began in the early 1940s. They were, in all sense of the definition, the biggest game in town. On The Warpath One former Reno slot machine mechanic who now works on a reservation, summed it up best: “The Indian gaming thing is really big, big places, big money, big pay, it makes Reno look like a ghost town!” Whether it makes Reno look like a ghost town is probably debatable, but Indian gamin is big, and it’s getting bigger. Simply put, the Indians are not going to let it get away form them. They’re already on the warpath to save what they claim is rightfully their own. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Legal Register List of legal professionals that can help with your legal concerns. Classified Advertising |
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December |
1991 |
COVER If Santa Claus left you a Bally Model 1090 slot machine under your tree this Christmas, you were mighty lucky. This machine was one of the most popular built by Bally, and was re-introduced in the E-series and V-series lines years later. Many can be found still operating in Nevada today. But the rest are now collector’s items. FEATURES The Slot Machine That Had It All Bally’s Model 1090 electromechanical slot machine was one of the most popular machines Bally ever offered. The machine boasted payoffs from left to right and right to left. It’s wide body design with three wide reels was combined with popular dollar play and an equally large hopper to accommodate all pays directly from the machine. And finally, the three coin multiplier circuits effectively made it a two to three dollar machine, much to the delight of casino operators. As these 1976 vintage machines are phased out of casinos to make way for the new solid state equipment, you may be able to own one, depending upon where you live. Strange Strokes of the Pen Every columnist likes to receive letters from readers. For gaming law expert I. Nelson Rose, letters tend to address far out questions and schemes involving gaming. Here are some of the more interesting, presented in question and answer form. Legal States For Slot Machines Here is the latest in legal states for slot machines. This abstract is published periodically whenever the number of changes dictates its need. When comparing your state’s laws with others, remember that you can change the law. A Different Kind of Christmas When Jerome French booked his Christmas trip to Las Vegas, he didn’t expect what he got, a special glow from all the paying slot machines. It’s really an unbelievable tale, but it’s made believable in this fictional account. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Marshal Fey, grandson of the inventor of the three reel slot machine, offers his review of the new Bally Owner’s Pictorial Guide. Marshall sums it up: “If you are the proud owner of a Bally slot machine, the new book is a ‘must’ addition to your library.” Legal Register List of legal professionals that can help with your legal concerns. Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1992 |
COVER This was Rhyolite, once Nevada’s third largest city, the one that was built to last forever. Unfortunately, two years after this photograph was taken, Rhyolite was closing the doors. Today, little remains in this city of broken dreams. FEATURES Rhyolite When Frank “Shorty” Harris discovered the Bullfrog ledge in the summer of 1904, he unleashed a wave of excitement. An entire city, with electric lights, modern plumbing, concrete buildings and three railroads sprang up within three years. Although Rhyolite is a ghost town today, it’s still an easy place to like. Join us on a trip to this frontier city, one that was built to last forever. Gold Although Rhyolite is gone, the town’s Bullfrog Mine is still operating. In fact, it’s southern Nevada’s largest gold mine. We’ll tell you some things about gold that your jeweler didn’t mention. Gamblers Have Rights What happens if you hit a luck streak, and the house refuses to pay? Have you ever wondered what you would do? This special report goes right to the heart of the problem and tells you what you can do. Crooked Dice Here’s a bit of old fashioned wisdom about avoiding the perils of cheating dicemen. Although written many years ago, it presents a fascinating look into the manufacture of various kinds of dice that will so what their owners want them to do, win and win and win, for them. Charles Fey There has been much written about Charles Fey (1862-1944). He was, after all, the one that invented the automatic payout, three reel slot machine. This concise report reveals the fascinating depth of the man. Government Non-Lotteries There is a type of lottery your federal government operates that just isn’t quite right. I. Nelson Rose, our gambling law attorney/columnist offers this eye opening look at a lottery that’s a non-lottery. Confusing, huh? Korean Water Beetle Game They call the game mul bang gae nori, Korean for the water beetle game. The playing field is very similar to a roulette wheel, but the ball is a water beetle. Players wager money, up to 200 won, and win prizes, depending on which slot the water beetle finds. And where it goes, nobody knows. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Two books are reviewing on gaming. One is a treatise on international gaming law; and the other zeros in on Colorado gaming. Legal Register List of legal professionals that can help with your legal concerns. Classified Advertising |
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July / August |
1992 |
COVER The Fey ON THE SQUARE was the first draw poker. But it has dice, you say. That’s because the machine was based on the classic saloon game of horses, a game originally played with poker dice. FEATURES Horses, Dice and Draw Poker This may be a bit difficult to understand. There is a game called “horses” played with dice, but the dice are poker dice. So along comes a fellow named Charles Fey. He built a mechanical game based on the dice game of horses and called it DRAW POKER. It was popular when it was built, and it’s been popular ever since. Gambling and the Law® Update ‘92 This update of the last year’s events in gaming law is a real eye opener. Government involvement, debts, impact, Indian gaming, lotteries, winners and losers, it’s all here. If you’ve been following I. Nelson Rose’s series last year, you will certainly want to update yourself. New Orleans Coin-Op Show Swamps, prison chain gangs and voodoo is the way many folks picture Louisiana. Although few people in this country are believers, it was bayou voodoo that one person blamed for keeping people away from the New Orleans Jukebox and Slot Machine show. We offer some different ideas in this special pictorial review. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising |
| September | 1992 |
COVER
FEATURES Baseball For A Coin
Bally's Sweet "Money Honey"
Excalibur Birthday Bash
The Pinball Show
Texas Coin-Op Show
Saturation Point
The Cruel Tax
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
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October |
1992 |
COVER The cast iron, nickel plated ON THE LEVEL, coin operated craps game was invented by Charles Fey in 1906. In our feature story, Fey’s grandson tells now the machine was cloned by competitors. FEATURES Fey’s ON THE LEVEL Dice Game Charles Fey’s coin operated dice machine capitalized on the popularity of craps, and set off a wave of imitation. Craps For Veterans A new look at the age old game of craps disputes conventional “right way” theory and suggests new methods to swing the odds in your favor. High Rollers on the River Floating casinos on riverboats or dockside barges are popping up along the Mississippi River and Gulf Coast. Calling It Quits Just like any gambler in a never ending losing streak, two Las Vegas casinos had to fold their tents and close down. Preserving Vegas’ Past The frontier heritage of Southern Nevada is on display at the Clark County Museum in Las Vegas. Milwaukee Coin-Op Show Collectors of coin-op memorabilia found nostalgia galore at the Milwaukee Fabulous Fifties Expo and Sale. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Bookshelf Frank Adams’ new book, Jukeboxes 1900-1990, Volume 1 is a nostalgic tour through the early years of music boxes, invention of the phonograph and development of the coin-operated jukebox.
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November |
1992 |
COVER The elegant Asian card casino in the Bicycle Club in California hosts high stakes poker and other card games. Poker Parlors handle billions of dollars in wagers each year, and are the subject of our feature story. FEATURES California Card Clubs Poker Parlors patterned after Las Vegas style casinos bring high stakes gambling to Southern California. Colorado Antique Slot & Jukebox Show The show and exhibition held in Denver has made great strides since Loose Change last visited the Colorado Rockies. Video Lottery Terminals State sponsored gambling in the form of video poker, keno, slot and other types of gambling machines, is sweeping the nation. World Gaming Congress & Expo 1992 High tech systems set the stage for commercial gaming in the 1990s, plus complete coverage of the annual gaming conference. Horse Player’s Heaven The new Sport of Kings race and sports book in Las Vegas is Valhalla for serious horserace bettors. Losing On Time in Tahiti Gambling legal expert I. Nelson Rose discusses the Banco lottery in Tahiti, and the game of tax deductible vacations. Heading Toward A Gambling Glut Experts at the World Gaming Congress & Expo predict the growth of commercial gambling may add to cities’ woes. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising |
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December |
1992 |
COVER This OPERATORS BELL baseball theme machine built by Harry Hoke in the 1930s incorporated his Feed the Snake “skill” feature, which he later patented and became the trademark for his SNAKES machines. FEATURES Tips. Tokes and the Taxman Casino dealers and other tipped employees have fought a constant battle with the IRS over reporting of their income. Hoke’s Hoax or Masterpiece of Modification? Harry Hoke is famous for his SNAKE slot machines of the 1930s. Was he simply another imitator or a master at revamping? Collectors Fun Fair The 17th edition of the Collectors Fun Fair held in Long Beach will soon move back to Pasadena, where it enjoyed its best years. Neon: It’s A Gas! Neon signs and other advertising displays from the 1930s and1940s have become prize collectibles in the 1990’s. LA Vintage Coin-Op & Advertising Show The LA Vintage Coin Machine & Advertising Show and Sale was a respectable first effort in California for Royal Bell Ltd. Pick A Cardco A new series of poker machines brings cardroom games as Seven Card Stud, Hold ‘Em and Pai Gow to video gaming. Liberty Slot Machine Company Auction Recent vintage slot and video poker machines were on the block at this fast paced auction in Las Vegas. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1993 |
COVER The slot machine industry has gone from metal fingers, springs and bushings to integrated circuits, LCD, and EPROMs. High tech is the new name of the game and the subject of our in depth cover story. FEATURES A Brave New World For Slot Machines Space age technology has thrust slot machines and other gaming devised into the 21st century. The Battle of the Titans With the proliferation of commercial gaming, operators are battling it out for the highly sought after gambling dollars. Collecting Casino Chips Learn about one of the fastest growing hobbies, collecting gambling chips and tokens, and how to get started. The Evolution of Pinball This historical and technological survey of pinball machines may show why the worldwide craze is as frenzied as ever. The Mathematics of the Bally 742 Our Slot Talk column examines the formulas used to determine the payout percentage of the Bally MONEY HONEY. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
| March | 1993 |
COVER
FEATURES The Bally E-Series: Collectors Hit the Jackpot
The Ever-Popular High Tops
Who Will Be the Next Las Vegas?
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
The Bookshelf
Classified Advertising
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| April | 1993 |
COVER
FEATURES Bally's Bartop Video Poker Machine
Great Western Slot Expo
The Fascinating Watling ROL-A-TOP
Craps Bets for Suckers
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Classified Advertising
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May |
1993 |
COVER
FEATURES The Bally 5000 Series Slot Machines
Great American Slot Expo
Is Nostalgia Getting Old?
Flipping Out Over Pinball
How Rare Is Rare?
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mail box
Bookshelf
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June |
1993 |
COVER
FEATURES Women and Gambling Machines
Drunks Don't Count
St. Louis Slot Expo
Debugging the Bally Electromechanicals
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Classified Advertising
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July / August |
1993 |
COVER Tropical trade winds, luxury resorts, suntanned bodies and upscale casinos. The tropical paradise may sound like the Island of Las Vegas, but in fact it’s the Island of Aruba in the deep Caribbean Ocean. FEATURES La Cabanba Beach Resort & Casino This tropical paradise on the island of Aruba is the ultimate vacation getaway. And if you’re a green felt player, it’s a gambler ecstasy. The Great Coin-Op show Wars Increased competition between coin-op shows has fueled a battle between their producers, including those off the largest shows in the country. Check out the casualty list in this exclusive report. Texas Style Coin-Op Show The Great Southwest Jukebox and Gameroom Show and Sale held last month in Fort Worth was a Texas sized event. Bunnies in Kimonos There are six times as many slot machines in Japan as there are in the state of Nevada. Many of these “Pachisuro” machines, including the popular Bunny Girl, are emigrating to the U.S. and finding asylum at coin-op shows and slot dealers. We’ll pull one out of the hat for you. Collectors Fun Fair The popular West Coast coin-op show returned to its former home in Pasadena, but the return was less than triumphant. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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September |
1993 |
COVER Bally’s entry into the large denomination slot machines was with BLACK GOLD. Unlike the Mills Novelty Company’s version, Bally’s BLACK GOLD has survived three models and has become WHITE GOLD. FEATURES Black Gold Black Gold means many things to many people, but to Bally Gaming the works launched the first high denomination slot machines. For Bally the name was new, but it first appeared over 40 yeast ago on a slot machine built by Chicago based Mills Novelty Company. The Elmer Cummings Auction Wanda and the late Elmer Cummings were one of the collecting field’s most visible couple. Wanda’s auction of her husband’s remaining collection was one of the best attended auctions in recent times. Restored, Reproduced and Remanufactured Slot Machines They were once called California conversions or counterfeits. Now these reproduction slot machines have joined the status of kit cars, quartz movement schoolhouse clocks and “One More Time” jukeboxes. Does Gambling Cause Crime? Asking for answers to questions like this is one of America’s favorite pastimes. Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose has some straight talk. The Pasadena Super Show Although the California economy is in a state of disaster, the new Super Show managed to pull through with flying colors and announce they would be back to celebrate the Golden State’s new 25 year law. They Shoot Horses, Don’t They? A grand experiment in racing and sports books ground to a halt before reaching the finish line. This special report tells why. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf New releases offer a wealth of information from international gaming law to old Wurlitzer music machines. Wurlitzer Automatic Musical Intruments, a reprint of a 1908 (est.) catalog published by the Rudolph Wurlitzer Company. Saddle stitched, processed-color cover with attractive hand-drawn art, 7 3/4" x 10 1/2", 48 pages, $7.95 plus $1.00 shipping and handling. - This reprint of a 1908 Rudolph Wurlitzer Company catalog is a nostalgic window into the turn-of-the century operations of the famous music machine manufacturer. Included are its electric Pianino, nickel operated Tonophone, the Wurlitzer Harp, the Mandolin Quartette, Player Piano, PianOrchestra, Singing Birds, Pipe Hand Organ and Military Band Organs, all with detailed descriptions and prices (1908 of course!). International Casino Law, edited by Anthony N. Cabot, William Thompson, Andrew Tottenham, published by the Institute For the Study of Gambling and Commercial Gaming, University of Nevada, Reno. Hard bound with green leather-like covering, gold foil stamped. 6 1/4" x 9 1/4", 565 pages, $125.00 plus $35.00 shipping and handling. - From the gambling mecca of Las Vegas to the new republics of Russia, the casino explosion has arrived. Yet, until the first edition of this book, no single source of information on international casino gaming existed. the newly published second edition of International Casino Law updates the world gaming scene with facts available nowhere else. Classified Advertising SPECIAL INTEREST Catalog Supplement Here’s the long awaited supplement to Mead Publishing Company’s Catalog 7L. Carefully remove it, and put it with your catalog. |
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October |
1993 |
COVER A damsel in distress saved by a brave buccaneer. It seems to be right from the front cover of a romance novel. London models Joanne and Vaughn Walker posed for our cover at the recent Australian Gaming Show in Sydney, New South Wales. FEATURES Selling Gambling Legalized gambling exists worldwide. And the people who sell gambling devices, from slot machines and roulette wheels to computer systems to track players, display their wares periodically at gaming shows. This special report covers two such shows, each halfway around the world from each other. The differences are surprising. The Denver Show The author described it as, “distinctively petite.” The show itself is a club event, largely supported by the club. And they have been doing it for a long time. The Explosive Spread of Legalized Gambling Few people realize the extent of legalized gambling throughout the world. But Canada, now has gambling everywhere, and it’s the indirect result of the 1985 Winter Olympics. Las Vegas, Now For The Entire Family The casino lords have finally discovered that the way to a gamblers wallet is through his family, including the children. And three brand new theme casinos will be open by the time you read about them in this report. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising SPECIAL FEATURES Slot Talk: Free Play or Play Free? By 1940 the heat was on slot machines, Frank Costello’s MYSTERY FRONT VENDERS were under the New York hammer. Then came the FREE PLAY FRONT VENDER. It sure looked similar. |
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November |
1993 |
COVER This issue marks the beginning of our series of Australian gaming. Part one of the series salutes Leonard Ainsworth, owner of Aristocrat Leisure industries Pty. Ltd., the country’s largest (and the world’s second largest) manufacturer of slot machines. FEATURES Aristocrat The start of our series on Australian Gaming begins with Leonard Ainsworth. It was Leonard who brought order and professionalism to the Australian slot machine industry. Today Aristocrat Leisure Industries Pty. Ltd, is the world’s second largest manufacturer of slot machines. Their massive manufacturing facilities in Sydney occupies space equivalent to six football fields. Wrapping Money, The Unique Way Remember the last time you bought a roll of coins at your favorite casino? Probably. But do you remember what was printed on the wrapper, or the color of the wrapper? Probably not. We take an insider’s look at a niche industry that prints these wrappers for the gaming industry. Die, Scum, Die Have your ever wondered what the United States Supreme Court really thinks about gambling? Our gaming attorney explains the situation, but the title says it all. Las Vegas 1994 This special investor’s report discusses the future of the Las Vegas gaming industry. It’s the most comprehensive discussion about the gaming industry we have ever published. What To Do When You Win $111 Million Just imagine it, you have the winning lottery ticket for $111 million. Your problems are over, right? Well, they could be, but if you don’t handle your affairs correctly, you may have won problems. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Classified Advertising |
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December |
1993 |
COVER What! Another ROL-A-TOP? Yes, but this one will operate on either a nickel or a quarter. It was one of three that appeared during the late 1930s. This beautifully restored example of a “Five Pull” is from the collection of California collector, John Hayes. FEATURES Watling’s Multi-Coin Rol-A-Top In the late 1930s, slot machines were mostly located in small stores. The machine’s hunger was satisfied by whatever change the customers had. Watling’s answer to getting two different coins from the customer with one machine was clever. We will tell you how it works. Predicting Costner’s Loss In South Dakota Would you bet hundreds of thousands of dollars and your reputation on something so rare that it has literally never happened? Kevin Costner and his brother, Dan, made that bet and they lost. Pubs, Clubs, Liquor And Gambling The control of slot machines in New South Wales centers around the “clubs.” Depending on where in the world you are, they would be called taverns, pubs or lodges. It’s all background for our series on Australian gaming. The Liquor Industry In New South Wales Here is the history of Australia’s liquor industry, and also the beginnings of the country’s control of the slot machine industry. Legal Countries For Slot Machines Did you know that slot machines are legal in over 80 countries? Can you name them? Don’t bother, we’ve done it for you. Riding The Rails To The Grand Canyon It must have been the ultimate restoration, an entire 65 mile railroad, steam locomotives and rolling stock. Multiple Coin Slots From Head To Tails Slot machines that accept more than one coin have been around for over a hundred years. Some are still being manufactured today. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1994 |
COVER Leonard Ainsworth, owner of Aristocrat Leisure Industries Pty. Ltd., takes a look at the new Aristocrat 540-Series on the final assembly line at his huge plant in Sydney, Australia. His company is the world’s second largest slot manufacturer. FEATURES Australia’s Aristocrats Here is the final chapter covering the history of the Aristocrat Company and how the company became one of the largest and most innovative slot machine manufacturers in the world. This part of our Australian gaming series covers the Australian giant’s landmark models form the first ARISTOCRAT through the models rolling off the production line today, the ARISTOCRAT 540. Casinos For California Legal expert I. Nelson Rose examines a recent California court decision that will potentially allow Indian tribes to establish full scale casinos in the Golden State. The Alton Belle Fine food, no limit wagering and an up scale, Roman themed gaming environment await the adventurous gambler on the nostalgic waters of the Mississippi River. Indian Casinos How do Indian casinos stack up against their Las Vegas counterparts? This guest editorial offers another editor’s perspective. Riverboat Gambling Riverboat gambling is a booming business these days. What’s happening where, and what is likely to happen next? A Token Revolution High Tech gaming chips eliminate slugs and make counterfeiting next impossible. With vivid colors and custom designed, detailed graphics, they are also quickly becoming popular collectibles. The Fine Art of Tipping From skycaps to keno writers; find out who to tip, how much to tip them, and why. Believe it or not, there is also a proper way not to tip. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Product Review The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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March |
1994 |
COVER
FEATURES Bally's TEXAS TWIN
The Casinos of Australia
Phoenix Slot Expo
Slot Machines for the Gameroom
Gaming Heads for the Clouds
Californians Will Vote Against Casinos
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
The Bookshelf
Classified Advertising
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April |
1994 |
COVER The VICTORIA SILENT’s pleasing variety of textures and shapes gave it an elegance that many believe to be unequalled. With its innovative jackpot design and well crafted internal mechanism the machine seemed destined for greatness. Find out, inside. FEATURES The Victorian Era O.D. Jennings and Company was in trouble. In the early 1930s model after model of the VICTORIA series met with varying degrees of public disinterest. With their backs to the wall, Jennings came out with a slot machine unlike anything they had ever made before, the VICTORIA SILENT “Peacock.” Find out if this exotic beauty had what it took to bring Jennings back from the brink. Winning Battles, Losing the War State governments recently had a victory in federal court. According to the ruling, the states cannot be forced to negotiate a compact with an Indian tribe. However, the Indian tribes may still be winning the war. Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose explains. Australian Pokie Picture Book Pictures, pictures, pictures, of the old and the new, the rare and the standard, the unusual and the quintessentially Australian. Take a journey through the history of Australian slot machine manufacturing as we continue our series on Australian gaming. A Deluge of Laws With the proliferation of legal gambling has come an even greater proliferation of the laws that govern it. Get a run down on some of the latest, greatest and most bizarre. Phosphates, Malts and Vintage Classics Join Loose Change on its tour of a remarkable antique shop/old style soda fountain. Meet the proprietors Tommy and Joan Meredith who have big plans for the shop’s future, but with an eye to preserving a healthy portion o f the past. Gambling Goes Mainstream Gambling is popping up all over the country these days. Why? The answer may not be as simple as you think. Find out what thoughts are running through the mind of our editor. What is a Lottery? Defining what a lottery is has widespread ramifications for legal gambling across the county. Unfortunately, the definitions are often confused and contradictory. How did the trouble start? Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose offers some insight. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs The Bookshelf
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September |
1994 |
FEATURES If You Want To Hit It Big, Play Keno Keno’s greatest claim to fame is that it offers the highest house advantage of any casino game, averaging 27%. But it beats the pants off the California lottery. We discuss some of the best and most popular types of tickets. The Business of Gaming This year’s edition of the International Gaming Business Exposition was much larger than the previous year’s event. This special report reveals the latest offerings from the best and the brightest. Biting Off The Hand That Feeds You As legal gambling spreads, so do laws restricting political contributions by gaming companies. Ten states already have constraints in place on casinos and racetracks. More are sure to come. Boomtown It’s not the biggest, and it doesn’t have theme park rides. But Las Vegas’ newest casino complex is serving middle American tourists in true western style. Adrift On An Iowa Riverboat Since spring of 1991, the land of corn, pigs and green beans has had riverboats. Now, failure of Iowa’s laws to keep up with the times is threatening an industry that may soon drift downstream. The Jennings Ciga-Rola The unique cigarette vending slot machines produced by the O.D. Jennings Company have never really been understood by collectors. Our “Slot Talk” guru now outlines the various models and how they work. Winning, Losing, Suing, Wining For 300 year the courts have consistently slammed gaming as an activity not worthy of the law’s protection. But Mississippi has decided that legal gambling should be treated like other legitimate businesses. Card Counting By Casinos Remember when casinos got upset because some players could and did count cards? Now the casinos are doing it. Not only that, they are using sophisticated computer programs. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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October |
1994 |
COVER Quickly, how many slot machines can you think of with Halloween overtones? One is on this month’s front cover, and another has been covered in this magazine in the past. This month we will take a look at this famous day and how it applies to gambling. FEATURES Pumpkins, Black Cats, Witches, Goblins, Ghosts and Slot Machines Halloween has become the third most popular party for adults. But only one manufacturer makes a slot machine with the Halloween theme. The Fremont Street Experience Now they’re going to build a roof over downtown Las Vegas. They rejected other “crackpot” ideas like a subway to downtown or Venetian canals. Coming To A Casino Near You Once one form of gambling has been legalized in a state, other states follow. Check out how your state stands in the gambling U.S.A. One Year Later What was once a cornfield and trailer park is now a full scale casino. Turning Stone Casino is a little over a year old, but it has grown by leaps and bounds. Casinos, Why Now Yea, and riverboat casinos crawled up onto the land and breathed air and became land based forms, mutants from the Black Lagoon? Sports Betting Where do all those number come from that line the walls of Nevada’s sports books? What to the plus and minus signs mean? We’ve simplified it for you. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Classified Advertising |
| November | 1994 |
COVER
FEATURES Carlton Van Gorder: They Laughed When I Decided To Build My Own
A Vest Pocket For Mr. Mills
Caribbean Stud
The Real Election Results
Bon Voyage
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Classified Advertising
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December |
1994 |
COVER This gigantic 250 ton punch press stamps out the blank for the Aristocrat Series 540 slot machine front door. Production at the plant in Sydney, Australia, is now at 1,000 machines per week. FEATURES Touring The World’s Largest Slot Machine Factory Join in this guided tour of the world’s largest slot machine factory. Over 95 percent of the parts in an Aristocrat slot machine are manufactured in this factory. While most people are fascinated with mass production, few understand the various procedures. We’ll explain it, with pictures and words. Las Vegas At The Movies Las Vegas is a city that is made to shine in the Hollywood spotlight. Sex, money, tragedy and unbelievable good fortune come together in the kind of bright package of flashing lights and brilliant colors that movie executives cannot resist. A Court Blows It The explosion of legal gambling has forced lawyers and judges to look again at legal issues that have not been considered for over a century. But the courts’ thinking is sometimes as outdated as hoop skirts and handlebar mustaches. Legal States For Slot Machines It’s time again for an update and listing of the legal states for collectible slot machines. While some states have liberalized their laws, the hold outs are still holding out. The Many Faces Of A Slot Machine When jackpots became fashionable in the late 1920s, so did a new part: the front. Originally conceived as a quick patch for the goosenecks, all of these “front” machines are prime collectibles today. The Mills Manufacturing Company This “thumbnail Biography” traces the Mills dynasty from its railroad brake manufacturing in 1878 to more familiar times. How Not To Legalize Slot Machines Battles are raging across the county over the issue of legal gambling, and slot machines. A case in point is New Mexico. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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January / February |
1995 |
COVER Rick's Restorations has a unique way of doing business. You simply visit one of Rick's raw material yards (junk piles), pick our the item you would like in your collection, and Rick will restore it to" better than new" condition. Just look at all that good "junk." FEATURES A Guy Named Rick
Slot Talk: Two Machines, Two Reels, Three Companies, Two Years
Carolina Confusion
Adolph and Arthur, The Caille Brothers
The Bally Draw Bell
Gambling Terms
DEPARTMENTS News Brief
Product Review
Classified Advertising
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March |
1995 |
COVER Video poker expert Bob Geddes takes time out to bask in the warm glow of one of his favorite casinos, the Gold Coast in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has a full house on the screen of this dollar machine for a $5 payoff. Bob says you can win. He does. FEATURES Bob Geddes There are people in this world who make great contributions enjoyed by everyone. The don’t wear banners; they don’t advertise themselves as experts; they don’t autograph books; and they go largely unnoticed by the every people who benefit from their efforts. They are the unsung heroes, the unknown soldiers of this industry. One such person is Bob Geddes. How Not To Write Indian Gaming Compacts In a previous issue of Loose Change magazine, gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose discussed how the state of New Mexico had accidentally legalized every form of gambling imaginable, just so long as it was conducted on a video screen. Now he tells how New Mexico fixed that mistake, then turned right around and made just as big a mistake with Indian compacts. The Beauty That Is Dewey Though not the most stunning example of turn of the century slot machines, the Mills DEWEY was, without question, beautiful and one of the most popular machines of its time. They were so popular; in fact, they were produced until the early 1930s. Out “Slot Talker” will tell you all about them, including a number of variations. Faro Of the few people that are aware that there was once a game called faro, fewer yet can ell you what the game was or how it was played. But, in fact, faro was still being played in Nevada at Joe W. Brown’s Horseshoe Casino in downtown Las Vegas. Come and “Buck The Tiger” with us. Thomas W.B. Watling Tom Watling got into the slot machine business when he bought the assets of Daniel N. Schall and Company, an early manufacturer of counter wheel games. Always a brag and nearly always a copier others, Tom Watling’s creations are wildly sough alter by collectors today. California Indians Can Open Casinos Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose tells how and why slot machines and full blown casinos can be opened by California Indians. Since keno machines have been ruled legal, slot machines must be ruled legal for the tribes. I. Nelson tells you why. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox The Bookshelf Classified Advertising |
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September |
1995 |
COVER
FEATURES Players Island Resort
Bally's Game Maker
Benjamin "Bugsy" Siegel
Computer Gambling
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
Publisher's Desk
The Bookshelf
SPECIAL FEATURE Merv Griffin Talks to Loose Change
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October |
1995 |
COVER Lady Luck? No, it’s our own Brenda Mead, all around Jane of all trades, including model of the month. She’s holding a pair of dice, the oldest gaming devices known to mankind. They are, in fact as old as man. Even so, it took them a long time to reach the United States in a game called craps. FEATURES Mechanical Dice Machines The mist mechanical craps machine is still man himself. Why, then is he always trying to replace himself with a machine? This comprehensive article traces the history of mechanical dice machines, and beyond. Indian Gaming, the Supreme Court and You The most important question today for anyone thinking abut getting into the gaming business is how the United Stated Supreme Court will rule in the Seminole decision how under consideration. Predictions, anyone? Tap, Craps and Flats Did you know that there were dice machines with shifting loads many years ago? Think about it next time you’re at a craps table and see some old geezer tapping the dice on the felt. The Case of the Casino Ghost Town In 1992 Mhoon landing was the envy of the gaming industry. The lone casino was charging $10 admission feed and people waited in line for hours to pay. Other casinos moved in. Today non are left, well, maybe some ghosts. Will Congress Kill The National Lottery At home gaming is the latest controversy. And the latest target is the National Indian Lottery. Will Congress kill it? Win By A Knockout! Remember the story about the guy from Michigan that wouldn’t pay his gambling debt? His home court said it was alright, even though the casino received a judgment from Nevada. The casino finally won by a knockout, and the Michigan Kit hit the canvas. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk Are the long time slot machine enthusiasts bored? Are the dropouts being replaced? The publisher discusses some recent experiences. The Bookshelf A new release, Casino, is out. After you read the book, you’ll want to see the movie with Robert DiNiro, Sharon Stone and Joe Pesci. Wow! Casino by Nicholas Pileggi, published by Simon & Schuster, New York, New York, 1995, hard cover, 6 1/2" x 9 1/2", 363 pages, $24.00. - "I had just had dinner and gotten in my car," said Frank Rosenthal. "I don't remember whether or not I turned the ignition, but the next thing I saw were these little flames. They were only about two or three inches high. They were coming out of the defroster vents. I never heard any noise. I just saw flames reflected against the windshield. I remember, I asked myself, 'Why is my car on fire?' And then the flames started getting bigger." Classified Advertising
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November |
1995 |
COVER The Pace DELUXE CHROME was used in many Nevada casinos. Harrah’s and the Horseshoe in Reno used them chrome plated in modified formats. Harold’s Club painted them red. This one was painstakingly restored by Vintage Slot Machines and Amusement Company in Las Vegas, Nevada. FEATURES Gameroom Slot Machines So you’re building a gameroom, a party room, and you would like to have a couple of slot machines for people to play. What should to play. What should you have? A collectible, a near collectible, brand new or not so brand new? We tell you what works, from repros to REGALs, from expensive to cheap. We’ll tell you what denominations to choose, and why; and we will even dispel the myth about dime machines. In short, we’ve done all the thinking for you. Tony Cornero If you are a long time reader of Loose Change you may remember an article about a guy named Tony, Tony Cornero. This thumbnail biography may refresh your memory, but it will also fill in a lot of the blanks of this near forgotten mobster and gambler from the 1920s to his death at a Las Vegas craps table in 1955. What About The Kids? How old should children be before they can gamble? Why 21? Why not 20, or 22? There are certainly children of 12 years of age who have the knowledge and discipline to gamble; and there are 30 year olds who shouldn’t be allowed near a casino. This comprehensive view of the subject is astonishing Gaming In Michigan Was it really only 10 years ago that casino gambling began in Michigan? Yes, and today there are lots of casinos in the area. The author tells about them in words and pictures, and rates all of them. The ratings may surprise you. Bets From Home By Phone And Computer Wake up! This is the computer age. Guess what? You can set up a legal telephone (or computer) gambling system, lottery, sports book or casino, in another geographical area and take bets from United States citizens. All you need to do is find you own rock to stand upon and do it. But the legal barriers are so great that you probably won’t wan the hassle. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Publisher’s Desk This month’s cover machine reminded the publisher about an incident that happened nearly 40 years ago. It was the era of mechanical slot machines, and the Pace DELUXE CHROME was king of the mechanicals in Reno, Nevada. Classified Advertising SPECIAL FEATURES A Holiday Season Gift You can place a classified ad in our December/January issue for a buck. It’s the Loose Change way of saying: “Season’s Greetings!”
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Winter |
1995 |
COVER This majestic 100 foot high Christmas tree at the Rio Hotel & Casino in Las Vega, Nevada is one of the nation’s largest. It is 95 years old, decorated with over 2,000 lights and tips the scale at 10,000 pounds. Many Las Vegas casinos feature lavish decoration during the Christmas season. FEATURES A Las Vegas Christmas Yes, Santa Claus really does stop for children in Las Vegas. This is a place where anyone can sit on Santa’s lap and he is a kid again. The Homewood Auction This auction proved to be one of the most exciting events for coin-op enthusiasts in nearly a decade. Several records were set, including $130,000 bid for a Fey LIBERTY BELL. Topping Off The Tower The critics said he was nuts. The kooks jumped up and down with glee. Others bought stock in Bob Stupak’s Stratosphere Tower. We’ll take you on a trip to the “topping-off” ceremony and let you decide. In The Reign of Rothstein One of the greatest gamblers of all times has been largely forgotten today. But during the 1920s he was king. Welcome to the lowdown on the upper layers of the underworld, in the Reign of Rothstein. The Mills Q.T. Handload There are 13 models of the Mills Q.T., so said March issue of Loose Change in 1982. Now the 14th model has shown its face. It hid for many years in the back room casino of a Las Vegas Chinese restaurant. Dallas Antique Coin Machine Show The second Annual edition of the three day Dallas Antique Coin Machine Show produced nearly $20,000 in donations for the event’s charity, Love For Kids. Sales were reported fair to excellent, and the “Peggy Sue” and Buddy Holly’s guitar attended. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk The publisher questions how much a slot machine can really be worth. His interest is a direct result of the Fey LIBERTY BELL sale at the Homewook (Illinois) Auction. The Bookshelf New releases offer a wealth of information, from casino owners and slot machine clubs to video poker and gambling. Classified Advertising SPECIAL FEATURES Catalog Number Nine Here is our complete book catalog and listing of back issues of Loose Change magazine (included in subscription edition only). |
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February |
1996 |
COVER By 1964, Bally had caught the attention of all Nevada’s casinos. Many made the decision to keep some mechanicals and update with the new. Reno’s Nevada Club refused to budge, and they wouldn’t by new Jennings machines. So Jennings built them their own new cases. The CONTINENTAL was born. FEATURES The Jennings’s Square-Tops The next model of Jennings after the SUN CHIEF series was the ELDORADO, with a wide square top. It was made in a number of different models, even a special casino type for Reno’s Nevada Club. We trace their history and tell what other manufacturers were doing during the same era. The Fremont Street Experience Four of the most photographed in the world are Las Vegas’ Fremont Street. Now it has been changed and redeveloped into something call the “Fremont Street Experience.” We’ll tell you what it is, why it was built and our opinion of its success. The Indians Still Win Gaming attorney I. Nelson Rose revisits an Indian gaming casino case. It seems all the confusion is about keno, slot machines and the California State Lottery. The debate isn’t finished yet, but this update will indicate the sweeping issues involved. The Great Tilt Here is a story for pinball enthusiasts about a match on a brand new game called “High Diver.” Preferential Shuffling Casinos can now by card dealing shoes that read each card automatically as it is dealt. This makes it easy for the casino to know when it is advantageous for the house to reshuffle. But there is a growing controversy over the right of casinos to shuffle cards in blackjack whenever the remainder of the deck favors the players. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk The publisher wonders what has happened to the enthusiasm of the early years of slot machine collecting. Classified Advertising SPECIAL FEATURES Las Vegas Casinos Here is a complete list of all major Las Vegas casinos and hotels. Included are their location, toll free and local telephone numbers. Now you can quickly access room availability and prices. |
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March |
1996 |
COVER
FEATURES IGT Loves Wurlitzer, Wurlitzer Loves IGT
When Losers Sue Winners
Baccarat Simplified
The Golden Age of Slot Machines
Slot Shots
Examining Internet Gambling
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Publisher's Desk
Classified Advertising
SPECIAL FEATURES Las Vegas Casinos
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April |
1996 |
COVER
FEATURES A Taste of Royalty
Cheating/Being Cheated At Indian Casinos
How To Cheat The Slots
Las Vegas IN Blue Jeans
When Image Is Declared Reality
DEPARTMENTS New Briefs
Mailbox
Publisher's Desk
The Bookshelf
Product Review
Classified Advertising
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May |
1996 |
COVER She really fooled us...not the showgirl, the slot machine. We figured it has to be in the E-2400 range. How wrong we were - but just goes to show you how complicated Bally's numbering system became when the E-1000 Series slot machines arrived. And when the E-2000 Series arrived, all hell broke loose! FEATURES Mystery of the E Identifying slot machines was easy when they had names. But when Bally began calling them by model numbers, and they all and near-identical looks, the task became more complicated. When the E-Series began, identification became a jumbled numbers game. Part of IGRA Declared Unconstitutional The Supreme Court has finally issued an opinion on the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act in Seminole Tribe vs. Florida. The result is that part of IGRA has been declared unconstitutional. But the decision may be a disaster for proposed tribal casinos, because the tribes won too much! Barflies Bartenders are a great source of information, says Barney Vinson, author of Chipped-Wrecked In Las Vegas. Here are some amusing highlights from one of his bar-top interviews. A Brief History of Slot Machines and Advice For Players Here are some peculiarities about the history of slot machines you may not have heard about. Included is advise - good and bad - about playing slot machines. Legislators As Social Engineers The gambling business is like no other... it is illegal until state lawmakers decide to make it legal. As a result, legislators have extraordinary opportunities to impose their personal belief on an entire society. The problems arise when the legislators are simply wrong. The Czar of Indian Gaming On April 15, 1996, the United States Supreme Court let stand a decision by a lower court allowing Indian tribes to bypass state governments and go directly to the federal Secretary of the Interior for Class III gaming regulations. The decision make the Secretary of the Interior the czar of gaming - in the south. In the west? No dice! DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Classified Advertising Buying, selling or just browsing, you'll find what you want right here. Also listed are announcements, shows and other important events. |
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Summer |
1996 |
COVER The atrium at Sam’s Town in Las Vegas, is one of the many ways casinos are changing for the new generation of visitors. A walk through the paths in this half acre forest, gives a needed break for many players. The atrium is surrounded by late 19th Century buildings, with ample access to gambling. FEATURES Changing Face of Gambling The enchantment of gambling is being lost, says the author. But maybe what is lost is the old ways, the old casinos and the people who worked in them. This in depth report traces the gaming market and tools from the mid-1950s up to the present time. Growing Pains of Gaming By now everyone has heard about the New Orleans Jazz bankruptcy. But equally important closures are occurring all across the nation. And these closures could have even greater long term impact on the United States’ casino industry. The Jennings SPORTSMAN Although slot machine enthusiast are generally aware that that some pinball games have payout capability, few have ever seen one. The fact is, most paypins don’t even look like payout devices. What makes the SPORTSMAN unique is that is was manufactured by one of the largest slot machine manufacturers. Once Upon A Time This humorous satire reads like a fairy tale and has all the characters of one, a lovely princess, a hefty stepsister, a prince, a king and even a Cont Igor. It’s about gaming, and it’s spellbinding. Trouble is, it’s all true. Pinball Foolishness Tim Arnold is not only Mr. Pinball with probably the world’s largest collection; he is bit of a cartoonist. When he is not thinking, playing, dreaming, working on, or talking about pinball, he draws burlesque cartoons, about pinball. This one, this first published in Loose Change is called “How I Stopped Being Normal and Became a Hopeless Pinhead.” DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk The publisher has broken his code about industry members’ deaths. He explains why, and for whom. Classified Advertising SPECIAL FEATURES A Memorial This memorial for Robert N. Geddes is the first to be published in Loose Change in over a decade.
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September |
1996 |
COVER By 1976 Bally seemed to be funning out of ideas for casinos. One of their answers was to make fancy stands, some with columns and top boards, and to sell the unit as a showcases machine. The Model 1044 was really a counter model. FEATURES Pictures at an Exhibition Everybody has their favorite slot machine, to play, look at, collect or talk about. I have mine, too. But take a look at this person’s collection of paper slot machines, photographic paper, for, you see, they are photographs. This article and photo essay showcases the best of antique slots. Supreme Court Reverses Gaming Ad Ban Ten years ago, the U.S. Supreme Court surprised every one who had ever heard of the First Amendment’s guarantee of free speech when it issued the Posadas decision. In short, the opinion banned ads for gambling. That’s been changed now. Nevada Approves Interstate Phone Bets The Nevada Legislature has voted to allow the state’s casinos and freestanding sports and race books to accept telephone wagers from around the country. Until now, Nevada licensees could accept phone bets only from customers calling from within the state. A History of Gambling Over a year ago, a man was privileged to sort through on old warehouse in Henderson, Nevada. Among other things of interest, he came upon some old books, brand new, but nevertheless old. Most carried publication dates in the 1950s and 1960s. Here is a reprint and information on how you can get a copy of the actual book. Nuts and Bolts Barney Vinson is back, this time with a collection of amusing vignettes resurrected from the gaming industry. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk Learn about the new look that Loose Change is developing, and about our new alliance with Southern California’s leading printing company. Casino Listings Newly expanded and updated, here is a list of casinos in tourist locations across Nevada. Book Reviews Concise, informative reviews of four recent books about gambling are presented this month, including a novel that teaches craps. Classified Advertising |
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October |
1996 |
COVER Machines to duplicate the game of craps have been tried since the turn of the century, all with varying degrees of acceptance. PROPOSITION DICE is destined to survive, because the player needs no knowledge of the game of craps. FEATURES Man With a Mission Blinded by the glamour of today’s industry giants, we tend to forget there are smaller companies building successful slot machines. Some sprout up with an idea like a spring flower, only to disappear with the fall breezes. Others manage to last a few years, perhaps a decade. One, at least, has managed to survive a bit longer. He is Michael Wichinsky, the man with a mission. New Currency Reporting Regulations Most casino visitors are unaware of the “Bank Secrecy Act of 1970.” Those wow are aware inevitable have more money than the unaware. The Act has nothing to do with banks, or secrecy. It is simply another ploy by our government to keep track of our money. Nevada was the only state able to win an exemption from the regulations imposed by the federal government, only because it was willing to put in its own identical system. Pyramid Schemes – Gambling or Fraud Charles Ponzi didn’t invent the Ponzi scheme. But his name has been linked with the idea of using the money of new investors to pay off old ones, ever since the near riot his scheme created in 1920, commonly known as the pyramid scheme. Why do so many intelligent people park their brains at the curb when they walk into pyramid parties? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Casino Listings Newly expanded and updated, here is a list of casinos in tourist locations across Nevada. Bookshelf New Products Many new products have recently come to market, all for the benefit of the player. Reviewed this month is a videotape, a roulette wheel clockers device, printed stationery for the gaming enthusiast, and a computer game for video poker enthusiasts. Classified Advertising |
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November |
1996 |
COVER Meet Nancy, Nancy Harwood, that is. Nancy and many other of the prettiest ladies in the world were on hand for the triumphant return of the original Loose Change Fun Fair, held this past July. FEATURES Fun Fair Makes A Comeback After a six year furlough, the Original Loose Change Fun Fair returned to Pasadena, California. But it wasn’t just another slot machine/jukebox show. This time the Union and Confederate Armies made camp, right along side of Playboy magazine centerfold girls and movie stars. Was it fun? You bet. Photo Essay: Girls of the Fun Fair Come with us and meet Nancy, Cynthia, Cassandra Bonnie and Sharon, in full color and in their most alluring poses. Las Vegas: By The Numbers Here are some very interesting statistics about Las Vegas. It’s a numbers game: 30.3-117,160-24/7, can you solve the puzzle? Life and Legends of Las Vegas Benjamin Siegel had a partner at the Flamingo: Davie Berman. Here is an exclusive interview with is daughter, Susan Berman. Indian Gaming Thrown Into Legal Limbo The United States Supreme Court helped create the boom in 1987. Now the Court has thrown the industry into such confusion that any plans for expansion have ground to a halt. Gaming In South Africa Attention Investors: South Africa has promise of becoming the latest hotbed for legal gambling. Backing Off The Supreme Court is now looking at a more level playing field for businesses based on “vice.” DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk If you noticed anything out of place in the last issue of Loose Change, we have good news, we know why: Type lice. The publisher explains. Casino Listings Anthony Curtis’ Top Ten Here’s the straight scoop! Best meals, lowest prices, best entertainment and hot tips on getting the most bang from your Las Vegas buck. Investment Advisor Investing in gaming stocks? Then take a tip from our financial advisors, writing exclusively for Loose Change magazine. Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines Gambling writer, Frank Scoblete, puts his pen to paper and gives tips and information for slot machine players and enthusiasts. Bookshelf Craps and Roulette, books on each leave some reservations. We tell it how it is this month. New Products Casino stationery and video tapes on keno and video poker take the spotlight this month. Classified Advertising |
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Winter |
1996 |
COVER Selling slot machines at the World Gaming Congress and Exposition is exciting. “Marilyn Monroe” is the main attraction at this booth, not the RED HOT RE-SPIN video slot machines. In addition to this pose for Loose Change, she also posed on a pedestal where her skirt could be blown up on demand. FEATURES The 1996 Gaming Show This special report covers the year’s largest event in the gaming industry, the World Gaming Congress and Exposition. It is at this forum that everything new in gaming products, services and supporting businesses is presented. We’ve singled out the slot machines and other products of most interest to our readers. Casino Gaming: An Entertainment Activity This new nationwide survey shows that while a small but much publicized group of gaming opponents is saying “no dice” to gambling, more than 90 percent of Americans have a different opinion. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk As Loose Change approaches its 20th year of publication, the publisher reflects on the past year’s events. New Products Postcards depicting the risqué pulp novels of the 1940s take the spotlight this month. Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines Noted gambling writer, Frank Scoblete, puts his pen to paper and gives tips and information for slot machine players and enthusiasts. This issue explains the growth in slot machine play. The Bookshelf Investment Advisor Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Craps Shooter Larry Edell talks about common mail order systems. Are they really worth the price? Nevada Casino Listings Classified Advertising |
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April |
1997 |
COVER Meet Coty Alexander as “Madonna” and her back up dancers, the Superstar Dancers. No, they are not the new craps crew, they all perform in the new American Superstars show playing at the Stratosphere on Las Vegas’ North Strip. A complete review of the high-energy show appears in this issue. FEATURES Entertainment After Hours For Loose Change magazine’s first entertainment review, we chose American Superstars show at the Stratosphere. To Bewitch and Bewilder This successful businesswoman says her stint as a 1970s Las Vegas stage magician got her started in her own meeting services company. Beating The Slot Machines This revealing, special report explains why advice on beating the slot machines is outdated, and why the newer machines offer so many obstacles to the cheater. Minnesota vs. The Internet A Minnesota judge has ruled that the Nevada operator of an on line sports betting service can be sued in Minnesota. Our gaming attorney/columnist explains why. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines The Bookshelf Investment Advisor Casino Listings Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Craps Shooter Larry Edell talks about Hopping Bets. They’re such a stupid bet, you even have to ask for them. But the payoff is high; are they really worth the price? Classified Advertising |
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May |
1997 |
COVER Restrictions and demands made by Las Vegas churches convinced this couple to be married in The Wedding Chapel at the Monte Carlo. They were able to have a formal service and dinner reception custom tailored to their desires. Although the Monte Carlo is a prestige property on the Strip, the cost was reasonable and competitive. FEATURES To Have And To Hold Getting married? Already married, and renewing your vows? Las Vegas could be your most logical choice, where weddings are tailored to the couple, not to the church. Traditional or outrageous, Las Vegas has it all. Fruitless Search for World’s Ugliest Slot Machine Leads to Stardust Gem AKU AKU’s nickname is “Tiki God,” but any way you look at it, it’s the world’s ugliest slot machine. Hawaiian Casinos In late February, it was voted to legalize casinos on Hawaii. Does this mean native Hawaiians will have casinos? DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk “There Ought a Be A Law,” says the publisher against technology gone berserk in this tongue-in-cheek sketch. Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines Noted gambling writer Frank Scoblete, puts his pen to paper and talks about the evolution of the slot machine. Players and enthusiasts alike will enjoy Part Four in this ongoing series The Bookshelf New releases address the nation’s most unique business, legal only in Nevada; and Frank Scoblete’s new essay on winning roulette strategy is amazing. Investment Advisor Investing in gaming stocks? Then take a tip from our financial advisors, an exclusive feature for Loose Change readers. Three major gaming properties are examined, plus there’s an industry update. Casino Listings Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Craps Shooter Larry Edell talks about lay bets, sometimes called “dark side” bets. Classified Advertising |
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Summer |
1997 |
COVER New York-New York Hotel and Casino is Las Vegas’ latest mega-resort, duplicating all of the “Big Apple’s” famous landmarks. Is the trend indicative of something more far reaching? What’s next, Paris? Yes. With a 500’ replica of the Eiffel Tower. Gossipers are already humming about a new hotel featuring the San Francisco skyline. FEATURES New York, Nevada This one third size replica of the ”Big Apple’s” skyline is one of the most impressive looking hotel/casino on the Las Vegas Strip. Two Plays For A Quarter Watling’s special TWO PLAY ROL-A-TOP was effectively on 12 ½¢ play, two plays for a quarter. We’ll tell you all about it and show you how it works. Nevada Denies License For Uncle Sam “Sorry, Uncle Sam,” Nevada said “we can’t give you a license to operate a casino. We don’t know whose hands will be in the till.” DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk The publisher discusses the possible causes for the apparent decline in the hobby of slot machine collecting. On track or off, it’s a no hold barred dissertation based on twenty years of observation. The Bookshelf Spotlighted in this issue is the long awaited biography of Bob Stupak plus a guide for missing and admiring prohibition area cocktails. Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines Noted gambling writer Frank Scoblete, puts his pen to paper and discusses those “smart” slot machines. Las Vegas’ Top Ten After Hours Entertainment MADhattan, New York-New York’s new theatre show is the most uncharacteristic show we’ve ever seen in a Las Vegas showroom. The Craps Shooter Larry Edell talks about buying better bets. Also included is an easy way to determine the odds. Investment Advisor Casino Listings Classified Advertising |
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September |
1997 |
COVER
FEATURES Entertainment After Hours
Whalen Auction Results
The Smart Machine Families
Why The Law Is Having So Much Trouble With Internet Gambling
Hot Las Vegas Jokes
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
The Bookshelf
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Craps Shooter
Investment Advisor
Classified Advertising
SPECIAL FEATURES Casino Listings
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October |
1997 |
COVER
FEATURES Showtime
California Legislature Makes Sausages
Hot Times at the Fun Fair
Bally...Historically Speaking
We Hereby Prohibit and Legalize Internet Gambling
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Entertainment After Hours
The Bookshelf
Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Craps Shooter
Investment Advisor
Classified Advertising
SPECIAL FEATURES Casino Listings
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November |
1997 |
COVER
FEATURES
Selling Gambling
Gaming Industry Growth Slows
Home
Will Indians Get Slots?
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Publisher's Desk
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Bookshelf
Loose Change Guide to Slot Machines
New Products
The Craps Shooter
Investment Advisor
Classified Advertising
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Winter |
1998 |
COVER
FEATURES A Holiday Message
Christmas in Las Vegas
Reno Adventure
A Nevada Christmas Carol
Courts Keep Riverboats Afloat
The Giggling Gambler
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Bookshelf
Loose Change Guide to Slot Machine
New Products
The Craps Shooter
Investment Advisor
Casino Listings
Classified Advertising
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February |
1998 |
COVER
features Enter The Night
Open Season on Card Counters
When Bad Kids Gamble
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Publisher's Desk
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Bookshelf
Loose Change Guide to Slot Machine
New Products
The Craps Shooter
Investment Advisor
Classified Advertising
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March |
1998 |
COVER
FEATURES Resurrecting Dead Signs
Jackpot? Sorry, The Machine Malfunctioned
The Best Bet on the Craps Table
Play-Through Slot Techniques
DEPARTMENTS News Briefs
Mailbox
Publisher's Desk
Las Vegas' Top Ten
The Bookshelf
Investment Advisor
Classified Advertising
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April |
1998 |
COVER The invention of coin operated devices marked the invention of slugs. As time has passed, the technology of slug making has kept pace with that of coin accepting devices. The Jennings MASTER CHIEF was one of the first slot machines to use a sophisticated coin acceptor. FEATURES Separating the Coins from the Slugs It is said that the first coin operating device was a holy water vender invented during biblical times. Shortly thereafter, the first slug was used to cheat the machine. We take a look at the battle between manufacturers and cheaters that has raged since that time. Legal Issues in Gaming’s New World The world of legal gaming is changing so quickly that it is sometimes difficult for casino executives to spot a danger before it develops into legal problems. Jubilee! Jubilee! Take the spotlight and top honors in “Entertainment After Hours” this issue. It is, without a doubt, one of the most colorful and tasteful shows in Las Vegas. A Great System to Come 100X odd? How much should you take? Larry Edell also tells why you should tip the craps dealer. Go-Down/Percentage Techniques for Slot Play Noted gambling writer, Frank Scoblete, puts his pen to paper for the last article of his series. For the final discussion he explains the Go-Down and Percentage Techniques for slot machine play. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Bookshelf Investment Advisor Investing in gaming stocks? Then take a tip from our financial advisors, an exclusive feature for Loose Change readers. Alliance Gaming and Harrah’s are under the microscope this month. New Products Remembering Las Vegas has graduated from CD to VHS, and with excellent results. Five volumes are planned, and the first is out now. Classified Advertising |
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May |
1998 |
COVER The Sahara Hotel and Casino was opened in 1952. This area is known as the North Strip and unofficially extends northward to the Stratosphere Hotel, Tower and Casino. The area is ripe for development, and all kinds of speculation exist, from amusement parts to non-gaming hotels. FEATURES North Strip, Potential Gold Mine? While the south end of the Strip continues to grow and add new hotels and attractions, the north end has had much slower growth and fewer reasons to lure tourists. We examine signs of positive movement in and around the area. Tribal Gaming Compacts A Definite Maybe California’s gaming compact with Pala Band of Mission Indians has the potential to spoil Las Vegas’ current boom. The state could see 20,000 slot machines within an easy drive of its major cities, maybe. That’s a definite maybe, because Indian gaming is a question of politics, not law. The Successful Crapshooter The successful crapshooter is willing to do that which the unsuccessful crapshooter is not willing to do. This report examines the many facets of the successful crap shooter’s wisdom. Trends For legal gambling, the last decade of the 20th century has been far more than merely unprecedented. It is a time of astonishing, unpredictable change. What is even more astonishing is that less than eight years ago, gambling was restricted to Nevada, Atlantic City and Puerto Rico. Today, casinos are legal in 28 states and territories and on dozens of Indian Reservations. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Entertainment After Hours This month we venture south of Las Vegas to Laughlin where Harrah’s presents two different shows using the same performers. Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Bookshelf Investment Advisor Classified Advertising |
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Summer |
1998 |
COVER Bally’s SKILL PARADE was one of many “For Amusement Only” games built by the famous manufacturer. But for amusement or not, the game favors the operator, and the game’s credit meter easily served as scorekeeper. The machine is from Las Vegas collection of Tim Arnold. FEATURES A Skill Game on Parade An old coin operated game has surfaced in near perfect condition. And it’s everything you could ask for in a game. An Outsider’s Guide to the Internet Internet lore is filled with misconceptions, myths, wishful thinking and just plain lies. Here is a look at the whole mess from a legal point of view. Just Call Me Slot Dog A new card game based on slot machines is on the horizon. The best part is, you can learn it in two minutes, and pay frequency is twice that of the normal slot machine. We take you for a behind the scenes look. The Soul of a New Slot Machine It’s the Indians against the palefaces again, this time in California where there may soon be real slot machines. Casino Discipline The next time you gamble, make an agreement with yourself about win/lost limits. Its call discipline. The Pay Telephone Here is the history behind America’s most prevalent coin-operated machine. Gambling Humor Here’s Larry Mac, poking fun at gambling and gamblers. Guilty by Reason of Insanity The rapid spread of gambling has forced judges to decide legal questions they never had to face before. Consider the gambler who had to steal to support his habit. DEPARTMENTS News Briefs Mailbox Publisher’s Desk The publishers sign off after 21 years of Loose Change and reveal some of their fondest memories. Las Vegas’ Top Ten The Bookshelf Investment Advisor Classified Advertising |