Slot machines have been around for centuries, yet their popularity continues to increase. From their early days as a primitive gambling device to their current status as a collectible, slot machines have come a long way. One of the most popular brands of slot machines is Mills, which dates back to the early 1900s. Not only are Mills slot machines highly sought after by collectors, but they also have a significant amount of monetary value. So, what is a Mills slot machine worth?
History of Mills Slot Machines
Mills slot machines were first produced by the Mills Novelty Company in the early 1900s. The company was founded by Herbert Stephen Mills, who had previously worked as an engineer for the Bell-O-Matic Corporation. Mills was inspired by his success in the Bell-O-Matic Corporation to produce slot machines. He produced his first machine, the Mills Liberty Bell, in 1907. This machine was the first to feature three spinning reels and the iconic Liberty Bell, which is still used in many slot machines today.
In the years that followed, Mills continued to produce a variety of slot machines, including the Mills High Top and the Mills Castle Front. These machines featured intricate designs and a variety of symbols, including oranges, lemons, and cherries. By the 1930s, Mills had become the leading producer of slot machines in the United States, and their machines had become immensely popular.
Value of Mills Slot Machines
Mills slot machines have become highly sought after by collectors due to their unique designs and historical significance. As such, they have become quite valuable. The value of a Mills slot machine depends on a variety of factors, including age, condition, rarity, and model.
Age: Mills slot machines that were produced in the early 1900s are the most valuable. These machines often feature intricate designs and unique features that make them highly sought after.
Condition: The condition of a slot machine plays a large role in determining its value. Machines in good condition will fetch a higher price than those that are in poor condition.
Rarity: The rarity of a Mills slot machine also affects its value. Machines that are rare or hard to find can be worth substantially more than common machines.
Model: The model of a Mills slot machine can also affect its value. Some models are more desirable than others, and these can fetch a higher price.
What is the Average Value of a Mills Slot Machine?
The average value of a Mills slot machine can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The exact value of a particular machine will depend on the factors listed above. Generally speaking, machines produced in the early 1900s can be worth thousands of dollars, while newer machines are typically worth a few hundred dollars.
Factors that Affect the Value of a Mills Slot Machine
In addition to age, condition, rarity, and model, there are several other factors that can affect the value of a Mills slot machine. These include the availability of spare parts, the presence of any rare features, and the overall aesthetics of the machine.
Availability of Spare Parts: The availability of spare parts plays a big role in determining the value of a Mills slot machine. Machines that are missing parts are typically worth less than those that are complete.
Rare Features: Mills slot machines can feature a variety of rare features, such as interesting reels or lights. These features can make a machine more valuable.
Aesthetics: The aesthetics of a Mills slot machine can also affect its value. Machines that are in good condition and feature unique designs are typically worth more than those that are in poor condition or have a basic design.
Conclusion
Mills slot machines have been highly sought after by collectors for many years. They are known for their unique designs and historical significance, and many machines are quite valuable. The value of a particular machine depends on a variety of factors, including age, condition, rarity, and model. In general, machines produced in the early 1900s can be worth thousands of dollars, while newer machines are typically worth a few hundred dollars.