Collectibles-General (Antiques)/old foot machine

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Expert: - 2/7/2009


Question

foot machine
Hi. I hope you can help me... I have an old drug store machine that vibrates feet. It has a tag from Maclevy & sons. It still works, but the coin box was replaced with a switch(I found it that way). I had it appraised on one of those 90s shows and the expert said it was worth $650. then. (I am unsure if the tv appriaser was close to actual value since they proved to be off on other items I had brought.)
I have a few  questions about it: The orignal appraiser on the show said that this machine is pretty rare - is it really? also, is it at all possible to replace the switch back to it's original coin operation? if so, where do I find an original coin box for this particular machine, or would any old coin box do? do you by any chance know how much it would have cost to use ths machine with it's orignal coin box? Would restoring this machine to its original operation increase the value? Lastly, what is the best product to use or way to clean this metal without destroying the graphics. I was going to sell it recently, but decided to keep it for now, maybe restore it ... it's just too fun to own! Thank you so much in advance for any help!

ps I can only attach one photo please let me know if you need more information from the metal MacLevy tag.

Answer
Hi Mary,  Your foot vibrator is not a terribly common machine, but in coin-op collecting, rarity does not necessarily equal higher price.  The foot vibrators made by the Exhibit Supply company are the most collectible and can sell as high as $2000 for one that is fully restored.  I would place yours at $250-350 as is and $400-450 cleaned and working properly on a coin.  As far as a cashbox, that will be hard to find.  To repair the coin operation if you know someone very handy they may be able to do it, or check in your yellow pages under amusement devices and you should be able to find someone who can do home service to repair it.  Finally for cleaning I've had good luck with GoJo hand cleaner--the pure white creamy only!  They also make an orange citrus on that will harm the paint.  Just rub it on with a rag and it cleans the grime off quickly.  Good luck on your project.  A fun machine!   Larry www.coinoplibrary.com
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks so much. Very helpful and the gojo did work wonders!


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Larry 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!

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