Most reproduction Mills machines are quarter denomination. This is probably the easiest way to determine if the machine is legitimate or not. If you are thinking about buying a Mills machine, for example, ask the seller for the serial number. Reproductions do NOT have serial numbers stamped in the castings. In any case, the cabinet, even if it has been restored, should show signs of its age. They will only bead blast the mechanism if it is rusty. Most people concentrate on the outside of the machine when they restore it. Look at the mechanism, is it super clean? If so, then it is probably brand new. Does it have nice sharp edges? If so, then it is probably new. Look at where the door fits into the wood base. If they all look brand new then they probably are. Take a look at the castings, the wood base & sides, and the mechanism. Mills War Eagle, Mills Golden Nugget, Mills Castle Front, Mills Bursting Cherry (AKA Brown Front), Mills Wolf Head (AKA Lion Head), Mills Hightop, Watling Treasury and Watling Rol-A-Top. The following models of slot machines have been reproduced. Here are some tips so you don’t get burned! These vintage machines are great conversation pieces as well as a great part of our history. An authentic slot machine is a big investment (well over $1,000) to most people.
