A little more information about me ....
I have been collecting slot machines since the mid 1980's. I bought my first machine at an auction and was clueless as to what I was buying. Fortunately, there were slot machine collectors who were willing to give me advice. With the help of my new friends, I purchased a Mills Melon Bell machine and avoided falling into the reproduction zone pit since there were several reproduction machines at the auction.
Once I had my new toy I became fascinated with how it worked and with the history behind it. One thing led to another, including adding on a 4 car garage to store my machines and I now have a pretty decent collections of machines.
In addition to buying and learning about these fascinating devices, I also enjoy talking to anyone who is willing to listen about them.
Since space is now at a premium at my house I am pretty selective in what I purchase. However, I am always on the lookout for anything unique or anything that is a really nice original machine. I know many reputable dealers and collectors and if you have something that I am not interested in I will put them in touch with you. If you do have something that is of interest to me then I will usually pay more than a dealer would because a dealer is purchasing the machine with the sole purpose of selling it at a profit. There is nothing wrong with that because they have to eat, however, since I am not looking at selling the machine for a quick buck, I can almost always pay more than a dealer is willing to pay. Contact me if you have a machine and want to sell it.
I also restore antique slot machines. However, my backlog is currently at 5 years so I am not taking on additional projects at this time. If you have a machine and want it restored and are thinking about doing the restoration yourself, then check out the DVD that I am currently working on.
If you have a machine and just want to learn a little more about it feel free to contact me.