Batteries

I didnt know the pinball machine had batteries? Yes, that is correct! Most modern pinball machines have batteries located on their circuit boards. Why? These provide a constant stream of power to the memory so the game can retain its settings as well as high scores.

Cool - but why should we care?

Well, batteries deteriorate over time. If the batteries are not removed every 1-2 years, they can begin to leak acid. That acid can leak on circuit components and destroy the CPU. Some CPUs cannot be fixed and replacements cost anywhere from $150 bucks to $450 depending on the game.

So - lesson of the day - replace those batteries! When selling a game, most collectors will want to see the batteries. If there is bad damage, expect a lower asking price.

Good luck!

Pinball Appraisals Lesson 1: Condition

So over the past few weeks, I have completed some appraisals for sellers of pinball machines. Some of the more recent games included Addams Family Pinball, Medieval Madness Pinball, Twilight Zone Pinball and High Speed 2, Getaway Pinball. Let's talk about condition. Condition of a pinball machine is the greatest factor in determining an appropriate value for a game. I think is synonymous to classic cars. A classic Boss 302 Mustang which has been restored is worth way more than an unrestored daily driver.

The same holds true for pinball.

Take for example the Medieval Madness Pinball Machine I appraised. The game has been sitting in the owner's basement unplayed for years. The owner purchased the game in 1998. Was the game in an arcade, tough to determine; however, it looked good. The graphics were nice and bright and the playfield, although dirty, was wear free.

The ramps, plastics, rubbers and playfield assemblies all looked good. So you are thinking - this has to be worth major bucks. Well, what if I I told you that batteries leaked all over the CPU and that the game was not playing correctly? That was the case here.

The owner thought that because the game did not play correctly, it was worth less, basically 1-2k. I laughed and said - NO Way, the game is worth considerably more. I explained that even though it wasn't working correctly, these things can always be fixed mechanically. Cosmetics are most important. I provided him an appraisal and he was quite surprised when my number was over $7,000. Consequently, we found him a buyer right away. He was thrilled. Bottom line - condition is king with modern pinball games. Don't let something that's not working fool you on a value. Don't let a buyer tell you "that light doesn't work" or "that flipper doesn't work, so it's worth less" - that's baloney.

If you have a Medieval Madness Pinball, Twilight Zone Pinball or any others, contact us for an appraisal or to sell. Next Up - Lesson 2: Major Features and How They Affect Value.

A Blog About Pinball Machine Collecting, Values, Sales, and Experiences.

I started this website to help find collectors like myself, pinball machines and arcade machines easier than dealing with Craigslist, Ebay, and Sleazy Auctions. This website has made the process easier for both seller and buyer. Since starting this website over a year ago, I have connected over 100 buyers and sellers of pinball and arcade machines.

The Sellers have had great experiences because they are immediately put in touch with people who actually want to buy their unwanted pinball machines. Not craigslist spammer and low ballers. The buyer/collectors of these pinball machines know their value and offer a fair price. Does every deal work out - No, but after speaking with buyers and sellers, this method is easy and fair. Over the course of this blog, I will update you with appraisal requests, pinball machines prices, pinball machine values, and news in the pinball industry. Thanks for looking and feel free to send questions!

As always, if you want to sell a machine or obtain a value, please submit your request!

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