LAS VEGAS, NV.- Featuring some of the most highly sought-after antique coin-operated machines in existence, the 1,500-lot-strong Coin-op, Advertising and Arcade Auction being held at
Morphy Auctions Las Vegas on May 1, 2 and 3 is projected to be the highest-grossing sale ever held at the auction house.
“This sale has the best arcade items, both antique and contemporary, that have come to market in the last 20 years,” said Peter Sidlow, president of Morphy Auctions Las Vegas. “Coupled with the gambling machines, advertising signs, oil and gas collectibles; and other unique items, this could be a landmark event.”
A strong contender for top-lot honors is a 1907 five-cent Caille Peerless roulette floor console. Beautifully maintained in original, fully functional condition, this model is described by Sidlow as the “finest roulette machine [he’s] ever seen,” and is expected to sell for $200,000-$250,000.
Other outstanding coin-operated gambling machines in the May auction include a pair of very rare upright nickel slot machines, a 1901 Caille Lion estimated to reach $40,000-$60,000; and a 1902 Caille Black Cat musical cabinet, which is expected to sell for $30,000-$40,000. Both are in excellent working condition.
Within the superb selection of gambling machines are a 1938 Pace Royal Twin upright slot featuring dual sets of reels for both quarters and nickels, potentially worth $18,000-$25,000; a very rare 1938 Superior Golf Balls three-reeler with vibrant Art Deco styling that pays out in golf balls, estimate $35,000-$50,000; and a similarly designed 1935 Superior horse racing console, which is expected to make $35,000-$45,000.
Among the other coin-operated gems in the May 1-3 auction are a rare, 1912 five-cent Mills Novelty Co. double Violano Virtuoso with self-playing piano and dual violins, estimate $60,000-$80,000; and a 1905 Edison Multiphone, billed as the “world’s first selective automatic jukebox. Accompanied by 24 original cylinders, it could reach or exceed $50,000. A 1937 World Series baseball arcade game expected to garner $35,000-$50,000.
The auction also includes a very nice collection or road signs from the Bruce Clark collection.
The May. 1-3 auction will be held at Morphy’s Las Vegas gallery, located at 4520 Arville St., Suite #1. All forms of bidding will be available, including live via the Internet through Morphy Live, LiveAuctioneers or Proxibid. Start time for all three sessions is 9 a.m. Pacific / 12 noon Eastern Time. On-site previews are available 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, or on an appointment basis by calling 702-382-2466.
