How Much Is My Japanese Slot Machine Worth?

The value of a vintage slot machine depends on many factors. You want to make sure you’re paying a fair price for it, but there are a lot of variables involved.

For example, how old is the machine? What makes it special? How rare is it? And most importantly, how much would it cost to restore it?

In general for a rare pre 50s Japanese slot machine you’d expect to receive several thousand dollars. Anything from the 1970s onwards are valued at around $100-$200.  

When someone is interested in buying an antique slot machine, they’ll  want to know everything possible about it. This includes knowing the exact model, brand name, and serial number.

If you don’t know anything about your machine, you may end up receiving less than its value. 

What Potential Buyers Want To Know 

Potential buyers will want to find out whether the machine is complete or missing parts. Is it fully functional? Does it work properly?

If it doesn’t work, is it because of a broken part or just a faulty electrical connection? Is it missing parts like springs, reels, or even a coin hopper?

There are different ways to figure out the age of a machine. Some people look at the date stamp on the side of the cabinet. Others look at the serial number.

Still others check online auction sites to see what similar machines are sold for.

But whatever method you choose, make sure you’re doing thorough research. Otherwise, you could wind up selling it for less than its worth.

Identify Its Age/Condition

The first thing you want to look for when trying to identify an approximate age of an antique slot machine is the manufacturer’s name. This information can be found on the machine itself, as well as on the packaging it came in. 

If there isn’t a label, you’ll have to take into account the type of metal the machine is made out of. For example, brass, copper, bronze, nickel, silver, steel, etc., are all common metals used to make slot machines.

Next, you’ll want to check the serial number. Slot machines come in different sizes, but the majority are about four feet long. You’ll want to measure the length of the machine and compare it to the serial numbers listed on the side of the box.

Most manufacturers list the serial number somewhere around the middle of the machine, although some places like Las Vegas casinos will put it near the front of the machine.

You’ll also want to check the color of the machine. Some manufacturers use bright colors, while others prefer muted tones. In addition, you might notice a logo printed on the machine.

Many older machines had logos that resembled the companies that manufactured them. However, you’ll want to keep in mind that these designs aren’t always easy to spot.

Finally, you’ll need to pay attention to the overall appearance of the machine. While the majority of vintage slot machines are similar in shape, you’ll definitely want to note the differences between the models.

For example, some machines feature ornate decorations, whereas others are more plain. 

You’ll also want to take note of the way the machine looks compared to the ones that are currently being sold online. All this information will determine how much your machine is worth.

Market Value 

Unfortunately, with such a niche marketplace like antique slot machines, you’ll never know how much value your collection holds unless you talk to someone who specializes in the field.

If you do happen to own a Japanese machine that you think is rare or unique, it’s important to make sure that you don’t just sell it without talking to an expert about its true value. 

You want to ensure that you’re getting a fair price for something that you love, and that’s why it’s important to speak with those who specialize in the hobby.

Legal Issues 

The legal issues surrounding owning antique slot machines are complex. There are federal laws governing the sale and ownership of such devices, but there are no state laws regulating them.

However, it is illegal to operate an antique slot machine in some states.

A few states do allow the operation of antique slot machines under certain conditions. For example, New York allows the use of antique slot machines in bars licensed by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board.

However, even though the law does not specifically prohibit the possession of antique slot machines, it does require that the owner obtain a permit from the ABC board.

In addition, some states have specific statutes regarding the ownership of antique slot machines. For instance, California prohibits the possession of antique slot games except in casinos (see also “Do Casinos Tighten Slots On Weekends?“).

Florida requires that antique slot machines be registered with the Division of Pari-Mutuel Wagering. And in Illinois, antique slot machines must be registered with the Illinois Gaming Board.

Research

If you want to learn more about the value of your vintage slot machine, there are many resources available to help you do just that. You can find prices for used slot machines on sites like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace.

If you don’t want to sell it yourself, you can always use one of the many companies that specialize in finding buyers for items such as slot machines.

There are also a number of websites that provide information about the history and values of slot machines.

For example, www.antiqueslotmachines.com provides detailed information about the history of slot machines along with pricing guides and tips on where to buy and sell them. 

Another great resource is www.slotmachinecollectors.org. This site includes articles about collecting slot machines, auction listings, and even a forum where people discuss their collections.

In Summary 

The value of your Japanese slot machine will depend on several factors, including the condition of the machine itself.

The best way to determine the worth of your machine is to seek out experts who specialize in the hobby and ask them what they would consider a fair price for it.

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