Posted 10 years ago
Seinfeldkr…
(1 item)
I just bought this cast iron gumball machine, and can't find another one like it. I've searched eBay, auction sites, and Google images.
I'm not sure, but I don't think the glass is original to the piece. I think it should be a round globe. If anyone knows anything about this machine, I would appreciate it. What's the glass window on the front for? Anything?
That's an awesome machine. You are correct about the globe. The correct globe is either a round or football shaped Advance globe. Also the correct lid is pressed steel.
This machine is an Advance 1-2-3, meaning it vends 1, then 2, then 3 gumballs for your penny. The window is to allow you to see how many gumballs will be vended next, although it in nearly impossible to see. I believe the window was so that it would not be considered a gambling device.
I can assist you with getting the correct parts if you email me at dave at brownbmw dot com.
Your Vending Machine was patented by Alfred D Antoine & Albert Gilbert both from Wilmette, ILL. A patent # 1,627,547 was issued to both men on May 27, 1927 and they assigned the patent over to Advance Machine Co. Chicago, ILL. Dave Brown is correct, the patent shows the globe being round and a glass window at the bottom for viewing the gum balls.