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: 3/28/2008 Subject: WORKING MODEL ARCADE MACHINES
Question HELLO, I HAVE TWO OLD "WORKING MODEL 'english machines. one is called the burglar and the other is called the drunkards dream. if possible i would like to know the age maker and approximate value . one is working and the other was but is not now. thanks grant
Answer Hi Grant, Your Working Models were likely made by Frederick Bolland, an arcade operator and game manufacturer from the 1920's thru the 1950's. After the war there were a lot of old coin operated crane machines that were no longer bring used, so Bolland bought them up, gutted the insides and filled them with fun animated scenes. I collect these and in good condition they typically go for around $2500. I collect data on these machines, so if you get a chance to write down the serial numbers and email them to me I'd appreciate it. Larry www.coinoplibrary.com
