Hi Dan,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Mills slot machines are important because they helped define what a modern slot machine is—mechanically, visually, and culturally. Founded in 1891 in Chicago by Mortimer and O.D. Mills, the Mills Novelty Company began with coin-operated vending and amusement devices, then became one of the most influential slot-machine manufacturers of the early 20th century.

Mills perfected reliable automatic payout mechanisms, making slots trustworthy for operators and players. Their machines helped standardize coin operation, internal gearing, and anti-cheating devices, setting industry norms.

The firm produced some of the most recognizable slots ever made, including the Liberty Bell–style machines, Roman Head, Castle Front, and Black Cherry. These machines are admired for their ornate cast-iron fronts, bright enamel colors, and bold symbolism—many are now considered works of industrial art.

During the early 1900s, Mills slots appeared in saloons, cigar stores, drugstores, and bars across America, making gambling a routine part of everyday life. When cash gambling was restricted, Mills adapted by producing fruit machines that paid out gum or candy, explaining why fruit symbols remain standard today.

In the early 1900s, 5¢ machines dominated because a nickel was an everyday, low-risk wager. 10¢ slots targeted a more upscale or serious player, often placed in better saloons, hotel bars, cigar stores, and private clubs. The higher stake doubled potential payouts and profits for operators.

Far fewer 10¢ machines were made compared to 5¢ versions, and many were later converted down to nickel play or scrapped during anti-gambling crackdowns. As a result, original, unconverted 10¢ Mills machines are substantially rarer today.

I've found a virtually identical circa 1930s restored Mills 10-cent slot selling for $1,250 against an estimate of $800-1,200 (https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/60146429_mills-10-cent-slot-machine-commerce-ga) in 2018, at Rockabilly Auction Co in Hartwell, GA. The firm has sold many other slot machines over the years and may be able to help you find a key and confirm the date. Other auction houses that sell slot machines with some regularity - and retain slot machine experts on staff - include Morphy (Denver, PA) and Red Baron (Roswell, GA).

Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:

A vintage Mills 10-cent slot machine
first half 20th Century
27 inches high by 16-1/2 inches wide by 18 inches deep
CONDITION: Lacking original key but otherwise appears to be in good condition
PROVENANCE: Inherited
$800-1,200*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.

Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia