Carved Wood Gold Prospector Slot Machine

[vegas2125]

Still trying to identify who carved my Gold Prospector. Any input would be appreciated. The character has what appears to be a Large "C" with a small "S" inside. This may help identify who the carver was. Photos attached.

Thanks, Robert

[mechanic]

Many of the figurines have ID markings under the base >

[MONTI]

The only carver I had heard of over the years with an "S" in his name was Jim Schafer who actually was approved by Frank Polk to carve copies of his figures after he, Frank, visually inspected Jim's work!
This is a long shot but could the "C" somehow stand for copyright and the "S" for Schafer!
I believe Jim was from Southern California but not sure and he is probably still around, who knows!
Somebody out there must have some information on the "C-S" trademark?
I think there are some Carved Figure Collectors here on the Forum!
MONTI

[vegas2125]

Monti,

Thanks for your input. The large "C' with the small "S" could very well be a copyright for Schafer. It is the most logical answer that I have been able to find. The lack of information on this particular character may be because it was in a private collection for many years.

Best regards, Robert

[marsonion]

The only carver I had heard of over the years with an "S" in his name was Jim Schafer who actually was approved by Frank Polk to carve copies of his figures after he, Frank, visually inspected Jim's work!
This is a long shot but could the "C" somehow stand for copyright and the "S" for Schafer!
I believe Jim was from Southern California but not sure and he is probably still around, who knows!
Somebody out there must have some information on the "C-S" trademark?
I think there are some Carved Figure Collectors here on the Forum!
MONTI

In this video Schafer explains his Frank Polk background:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8bmoX_cyro

His "Mantiques Network" includes many dozens of videos pitching various antique slots and other coin-op.

[vegas2125]

Thanks you to the mechanic for his information on possible ID under steel base. I have checked under the base but no ID was found.

[MONTI]

Bob!
I placed a call to Jim Schaffer yesterday and got his machine and he called me back and left a message on mine last night so we are playing phone tag! LOL
I'll call him today and see what he knows as he was close to Frank Polk back in the day!
Ciao!
MONTI

[MONTI]

The only carver I had heard of over the years with an "S" in his name was Jim Schafer who actually was approved by Frank Polk to carve copies of his figures after he, Frank, visually inspected Jim's work!
This is a long shot but could the "C" somehow stand for copyright and the "S" for Schafer!
I believe Jim was from Southern California but not sure and he is probably still around, who knows!
Somebody out there must have some information on the "C-S" trademark?
I think there are some Carved Figure Collectors here on the Forum!
MONTI

In this video Schafer explains his Frank Polk background:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8bmoX_cyro

His "Mantiques Network" includes many dozens of videos pitching various antique slots and other coin-op.

Yes, it is Marsonion!
At my age I can't remember what I had for lunch yesterday! LOL
I placed a call to him yesterday and I am certain that our paths crossed back in the "Old Days" so I am looking forward to our chatting!
Thanks for the comment here!
Ciao!
MONTI

[Lol]

Hi Monti
Greetings from the UK. Hope this helps;
Loose Change Dec 1985. 12 page comprehensive article by Daniel R. Mead "Frank Polk Figures James Schafer Brings' em back alive!
I did not want to scan the article as I am not sure about the copyright situation on old magazines.

Best Lol (Laurence) UK

[MONTI]

Hi Monti
Greetings from the UK. Hope this helps;
Loose Change Dec 1985. 12 page comprehensive article by Daniel R. Mead "Frank Polk Figures James Schafer Brings' em back alive!
I did not want to scan the article as I am not sure about the copyright situation on old magazines.

Best Lol (Laurence) UK

Hello Laurence!
Hope all is well across the pond! LOL
Yes, I have that copy of Loose Change stored away with other old publications of the "Hey Day" of vintage slots, Coin Drop, Etc.
I enjoy digging them out from time to time and seeing the old articles, late 70's and 80's stories and some but not many early 90's!
MONTI