A five-drachma coin provided a small splash of water with which a worshiper could sprinkle himself. They can be traced back to an ancient Egyptian holy water vendor used more than 2,200 years ago. Vending machines have been around longer than any other type of coin-op. The vending, amusement and gambling machine industry grew side by side with the other great inventions of this era. (Photo, courtesy of Johnny Duckworth.)ĭuring the American Industrial Revolution, coin-op inventors produced numerous devices. Win or lose, the player always received a roll of mints. One of the most highly sought after slot machines from the 1930s, the goal is to line up the correct colors of horses to make a payout. Superior Horse Race, Superior Confection Co., Columbus, Ohio. Offered a choice of four fragrances for one cent.īeautiful flowers and cupids adorned this 1916 beauty. Mills Whiffs of Fragrance, Mills Novelty Company,Ĭhicago. Soon, society may no longer need coins to purchase anything. Coins, however, are quickly being replaced by paper bills, credit cards and other new technology, while cars are quickly being converted to electric operation. The last quarter of the 19th century saw the commercial birth of both major industries, and the first quarter of the 21st century will probably witness their demise. The era of coin-operated machines is concurrent with the gasoline-powered automobile.
