NJ Antiques
Live Auction

NJ Antiques June Auction

Tue, Jun 16, 2026 10:00AM EDT
Lot 160

Mills Novelty Co. 5¢ “Lion's Head” Slot Machine with Bell Fruit Gum Reels

Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$2,500 $100
$5,000 $200
$20,000 $500
$50,000 $1,000
$100,000 $5,000

Offered is an impressive antique Mills Novelty Company 5-cent “Lion's HeAD” slot machine, featuring the iconic red eagle front casting, yellow and black Art Deco-style decoration, Bell Fruit Gum reel strips, and original-style wood cabinet with side pull handle. The machine retains its interior mechanism, coin chute, payout windows, jackpot award card, back door, and period paper instruction/service notices from Mills Novelty Co. of Chicago. The side decal reads “Genuine Mills Bears a Trade Mark,” and the machine shows serial number markings including 287507. This example displays strong visual appeal with vibrant paint, detailed cast-metal ornamentation, visible age-related wear, paint loss, oxidation, scratches, and surface patina consistent with age and use. The back door is present and opens to reveal the mechanical assembly and reels. A decorative keychain is currently hanging from the rear lock area. An excellent display piece for collectors of early gambling machines, arcade antiques, coin-operated devices, or Mills slot machines. Functionality has not been fully tested, and the machine is offered as an antique collectible as shown. Approx. dimensions (in): 25 x 16 x 15.

Condition

It is the Buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and deem their own opinions on condition, description, provenance, and validity BEFORE purchasing. Please contact us with any questions so we may aid you in your assessment. All descriptions are visual opinions based on the Auction house's experience and do not warrant as a guarantee. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is free from damage and wear. Please review all pictures posted on this listing. We encourage all buyers to request a condition report and/or additional photos prior to bidding on any lot as ALL ITEMS ARE SOLD AS-IS, WHERE IS.

 

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