AboutLarry Bieza Expertise I can answer virtually any question relating to coin operated machines. I have been a BUYER and COLLECTOR for over 25 years and have authored a number of PRICE GUIDES on the subject. My favorite coin operated items are penny arcade machines and pinball games, although I have a vast knowledge in all areas. I also have a huge quantity of coin operated paper advertising which can help date and identify most items.I can answer questions on vending machines, arcade machines, fortune tellers, slot machines, digger/crane machines, gumball machines, peanut machine, gum machine, strength testers, lung testers, pinball machines, gambling machines, bowling machines, etc. I have expertise in the machines from Mills Novelty, Caille, Watling, Keeney, Genco, Chicago Coin, Gottlieb, Bally, Williams, etc.
Experience I have written a number of Price Guides for penny arcade machines AND for pinball games and am considered one of the experts in the hobby on pricing.
Education/Credentials I come from the school of experience. Collecting Coin operated items is my life and hopefully you have some questions to test my abilities!
Expert: Larry Bieza Date: 3/18/2008 Subject: Vintage Catalina pinball
Question Hello,
my husband owns a vintage wood pinball machine. I am not sure the maker or the year of the machine. The game is Catalina. Could you give me a ball park on the value and what year it is.
Answer Hi, There were two pinballs called Catalina, made just after World War 2. One was by Chicago Coin and the other was a conversion of a game from another company, Marvel. Unfortunately, neither game has flippers and so both are low value. In nice shape, either game would only be worth $200-300. Larry www.coinoplibrary.com
