The machine in question, is definitely an original "Golden Nugget", but has some issues. Case is correct, with the Formica side laminates.
The upper name-plate and award bib, are etched originals, and not silk-screened like the repros are. Appears that the castings may have
been repainted long ago, as maroon was not a common color on the HighTop models. The lower casting is also not the one used on this
model. The wrap-around chrome coin tray trim is missing, and an original, near impossible to find, and I know of no one that has ever
reproduced this trim for any of the models. You would have to make a new pattern, and not recast from an original, as the shrinkage
would not allow a casting of this size to ever fit correctly. Plus, all the trims are different, with the HighTop, HalfTop, and Extra-Bell
versions. Not to mention the Jennings models. In regards to PapaHog, he was selling the Doll and Nugget recasts for the HalfTop models.
I have never seen him selling the large coin tray trim. I will call him, and ask if he does know anyone that has ever done them.
As for the mechanism in this machine, it could have also been swapped, as I do not see any serial stampings, or tags on the crossbar, that
were put on all models, although it does show a stamped red number, and does appear to have original reel strips. Even though the price
is not way-out-of-line, I would still stay away from this machine, because of the issues, and any other "Ifs" there may be. As we all know,
a few pictures Do Not show all the flaws.