Now I own a slot machine. What next?

[Garage21]

So i just became the owner of a Jennings 25 cent Chief Governor slot machine. I am a car and motorcycle collector and have spent a great many years of my life assembling a collection of cars, bikes and various pieces of automobilia. I've never owned a slot machine but am a sucker for art deco and a friend of mine who I helped to acquire a car he wanted presented this to me as a thank you gift.

I know nothing about it except for the name and what is depicted in the picture below. I love the look, but would like to know a little more about its history. Is it rare? where's it from? Is it worth anything? I don't know that i'm going to start stocking up on slot machines, but I do like to know a bit about the pieces that are on display in my garage.

Pictures of the machine are below and you can see other stuff in my collection at http://www.garage21.com

Any information about this Jennings is greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Andy.

[sm1116]

It is part of the Sun Chief line made by O D Jennings of Chicago Il. It is an early Govenors model as denoted be smaller jackpot window (I like because it gives you extra light at window that larger jackpot window does not have). It is missing cash box. You can use a repro one or preferably buy a real one with lock and key
Made in early 50's and you can get more exact from serial number located on back edge of baseplate. If serial number matches inspection sticker on right inside of cabinet it is worth more
It is a nice machine and value from $1,700 to $2,700

[Garage21]

Thank you SM. Obviously having the cash box would increase the value, but what else drives the valuation from a low of $1700 to a high of $2700?

Also, what should I look for to ensure it's authentic (or is this just not a piece that was ever reproduced)?

And finally, where would I go to get the locking cash box?

Thanks so much for your assistance.

Andy.

[nvmos2]

Very nice machine;
Jennings was one of the top slot machine makers for decades;
the Sun Chief family of machines was very popular with casinos and finally pushed Jennings into the number 1 producer after 50 years of competition.

The Sun Chief line ran from about 1949 to 1964, so there were a lot of variations in the model.
That large light-up top casting is the Eldorado variation and dates it to 1959 to early 60s (according to Fey).

Now that you have this one, what's next?
Start adding slots to your collection, of course.
The Sun Chief may have Art Deco influence, but I really don't see it; more of a 50s style, in accordance with its time.
If you like art deco, there are many slots with a great and distinct art deco style.
As an example, do a google search for images of Jennings Little Duke slot machine.

[sm1116]

From what I can see yours is authentic. A repro would not have a serial number. Dave has a great post on fakes posted on this forum but I don't think you have one. Your value would depend a lot on the condition of mechanism, reel strips, jackpot and everything working correctly. ie plays and pays. I can't see more as there are no pictures of mechanism
I noticed rust and that would have to be removed as well as old oil and grease. Some parts need to be removed to do properly. I do friends of mine for nothing as I enjoy doing it but someone local can do it. Books are available.

I would start with Dave at mrslot1 or Jerry for cash box. You can pm me for phone and info. Picture of mech and serial no and I can date for you

[oldslotman]

Very nice addition to your collection. Nice stuff you have.