Collectibles-General (Antiques)/Old candy machine

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Expert: DR. ROBERT LERCH - 1/29/2009


Question

candy machine
I've recently acquired a family heirloom that was promised to my wife almost 20 years ago. Her grandfather had a junkyard & gas station in Avenel, NJ until the mid 70's.
They had an old candy machine that dispensed candy bars, there are 5 rows (varieties) of 16 shelves each. My guess is; it was from the 40's era.
It takes a nickel and the mechanism is functional. It looks as though someone has attempted to repaint it a time or two, but it was done very poorly as you will see in the attached photos.
I would like to restore it to closely resemble it's original state, or customize it to a "chocolate brand name" theme.
I have disassembled most of the metal cabinets. It seems there are some decorative pieces missing from the front because there are some holes drilled in the panel that look original, just covered up with paint.
There are no markings, so I have no way of knowing the age or manufacturer of this machine. I can't find anything on the web, I'd like to see some pictures of the original, I'm hoping you can help me with this.
Thank you,
Bill

Answer
hi...i cant tell you what the machine is...i can tell you as far as candy machines go it is not a great one...you would probably be better off buying a better machine on ebay because with the amount of time and money it would take to restore this it doesnt make much sense.
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 6Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 8
    CommentI am more interested in getting some info on the origins of the machine than buying another "better" machine. I'm not concerned as much with it's value. I enjoy tinkering & refurbishing old mechanical items. I have plans to add this finished piece to my gameroom.


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DR. ROBERT LERCH

Expertise

i am able to answer questions related to COIN OPERATED MACHINES OF ALL TYPES. TIFFANY STUDIOS LAMPS, GLASS AND ACCESORIES. AMERICAN FOLK ART. CAST IRON. GENERAL ANTIQUES

Experience

tiffany studios coin operated machines american folk art antique stained glass photography paintings art glass cast iron

Education/Credentials
nationally recognized collector board certified ear nose and throat physician

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