Vintage 1927 Pace Bell Fruit Gum Slot Machine 5¢ Nickel Art Deco Design

Vintage 1927 Pace "Bell Fruit Gum" Slot Machine - 5¢ Nickel - Art Deco Design. Step back into the golden era of gaming with this authentic Pace Manufacturing Co.

Slot machine, dated 1927 and marked "Pace" on the front panel. This iconic 5¢ (nickel) slot machine features the classic Bell Fruit Gum reels, a payout schedule card, and an embossed Art Deco-style aluminum front with intricate floral stamping. Of Chicago was one of the leading slot machine makers during the 1920s-30s. The "Bell Fruit Gum" design was a way to circumvent anti-gambling laws of the era-machines were technically vending devices that dispensed gum or tokens, but also paid out coins as winnings. The distinctive fruit symbols (cherries, lemons, oranges, plums, and bells) became the standard imagery still used in slot machines today. This machine represents an important transition between the earlier cast-iron "Liberty Bell" machines of the late 1800s and the more complex electro-mechanical slots of the mid-20th century. Model: Bell Fruit Gum - 5¢ Nickel Slot. Date: 1927 (cast into front panel). Construction: Aluminum front with floral engraving, wood cabinet sides and rear. 20" tall × 15" deep × 15 wide (see tape measure photos).

Mechanism: Reel and lever system intact; payout table clearly visible. Lock: Original Corbin lock on rear (key not included).

Overall excellent vintage appearance with bright aluminum front and intact reels. Cabinet wood shows light age wear consistent with its age. Working Perfectly, Pays out correctly on a win.

Payout card and reels are clean and legible. Rear lock present but no key available (see note below).

The rear door lock is a Corbin Made in USA lock. Original keys are scarce, but reproduction replacement keys and compatible back locks are available from antique slot machine parts suppliers and collectors. If desired, the lock can be drilled and replaced with a working reproduction lock set (commonly found online or at slot machine restoration shops).