Expert: Rodger Knutson - 3/10/2011

Question
Hello, I was wondering if you could tell me anything about the Ballys 5 cent Draw Bell console slot machine. Im going to be selling one for my father in law and have just begun my research process. The machine is in very good condition and works as it should. Any information on this slot, its value, and the best market to try and sell such a machine will greatly be appreciated. Thanks Jed

Answer
Hi Jed,

The Bally consoles were made in the 40's, there cool, the glass is silk screened, they are made with nice wood, well built, but they just never did well value wise, on the collectors market. I love them myself, but they are big and heavy, expensive to ship, and are wired with cloth wiring which adds to the costly repairs, if you have one not working, as these are labor intensive and can cost a few bucks when you need to get one repaired. Value Retail, I would expect to see one in an antique store with a price sticker of 800.00 to 1,000.00, but if your selling it and want to sell it in a reasonable amount of time, expect to see it selling in the 300.00 to 500.00 range if its nice, and working. Crags list is a good avenue to try to sell it, as you can sell it locally and save the shipping problems and list it for free. You can ask for more Jed, it is a true antique, and the true value of an antique is what the buyer is willing to pay for it, and what the seller is willing to sell it for. You may also try to sell it outright to an antique store or consign it to one, or maybe a 2nd hand shop. There is a buyer for these, you just have to round them up, to get your price when selling these 40's console machines. I hope this helps you Jed, anything more I can add just ask OK?

Good Luck!

Thank You

Rodger Knutson
http://www.coinslots.com