1930’s Mills Novelty Horsehead Bonus Slot Machine

This 25-cent Mills Novelty Horsehead Slot Machine from around 1937, produced by the Mills Novelty Company in Chicago, Illinois, is a charming relic of the Art Deco era. Despite showing signs of use and age, it remains in very good original condition and is fully functional, complete with keys. Its standout feature is the bonus payoff system, a novelty in its time. Players can win an additional 18 coins if the letters on the reels spell out the word “BONUS.” This unique feature adds to the machine’s allure, making it more engaging and entertaining than other slot machines of its time. To track progress toward the bonus, players can monitor the illuminated letters at the top right of the machine, adding an element of anticipation to the game.

Measuring 27 inches tall by 16 inches wide by 16 inches deep, this Mills Novelty Horsehead Slot Machine is a compact yet captivating piece of vintage gaming history. Its mechanism for triggering the bonus payoff, where players must hit the corresponding letters on the first reel to spell out “BONUS,” demonstrates the ingenuity of early slot machine designs. This interactive element not only adds to the excitement of the game but also serves as a clever strategy to keep players engaged and playing longer. Its classic design and innovative bonus feature make it a prized collector’s item for vintage slot machines and gambling memorabilia enthusiasts. Photos displayed here represent the current vintage condition.