Top 10 Rarest Pinball Machines

Pinball machines have been a staple of arcade culture since the mid-20th century, with enthusiasts valuing them not just for their gameplay but for their unique art and historical significance. Among the myriad of pinball machines that have graced arcades and game rooms, some are exceptionally rare due to limited production runs, unique features, or historical events. Here, we dive into the top 10 rarest pinball machines that every collector dreams of owning.

1. 1950s Bally “Wizard”: Bally's "Wizard" is a legendary pinball machine from the 1950s, known for its iconic design and challenging gameplay. With only a handful of units ever made, its rarity is further compounded by its delicate components, making it a prized possession for collectors. The game features unique artwork by famed designer Gordon Morison and is highly sought after for its historical value and rarity.

2. 1963 Gottlieb “The Jetsons”: This pinball machine, based on the popular animated TV show "The Jetsons," was produced in limited quantities, making it a rare gem. Its vibrant artwork and futuristic theme capture the essence of the early 60s pop culture. Due to its limited production run and unique theme, finding a fully operational "The Jetsons" pinball machine is a rare occurrence.

3. 1970 Williams “Big Deal”: Williams’ "Big Deal" pinball machine from the 1970s is another rare find. Known for its distinctive scoring system and engaging gameplay, this machine was produced in limited numbers. Its rarity is attributed to its short production run and the subsequent shift in pinball design trends, which left "Big Deal" as a unique artifact of its time.

4. 1977 Bally “Evel Knievel”: Bally's "Evel Knievel" pinball machine is a tribute to the famous stunt performer, and its rarity stems from its limited production and the decline in popularity of themed pinball machines. Collectors prize it not only for its rarity but also for its vibrant artwork and engaging playfield, which features elements from Knievel's stunts.

5. 1980 Stern “Star Wars”: Stern’s "Star Wars" pinball machine from 1980 is a rare find due to its early association with the iconic franchise. Its limited production run and the high demand among Star Wars fans make it a sought-after piece for collectors. The machine features early artwork inspired by the original trilogy, adding to its historical and collectible value.

6. 1983 Data East “Stars”: Data East’s "Stars" pinball machine is another rarity, with only a few units making it into collectors' hands. Known for its innovative gameplay and challenging features, "Stars" represents a unique period in pinball history. Its rarity is enhanced by its limited production and the subsequent rise of more advanced pinball machines.

7. 1985 Williams “Gorgar”: "Gorgar" was Williams' first talking pinball machine, and its rarity is due to its innovative technology and limited production. The machine's speech synthesis technology was groundbreaking for its time, and finding a working unit is a challenge due to its complex electronics and limited production numbers.

8. 1990 Williams “The Getaway: High Speed II”: While not as old as some of the other machines on this list, "The Getaway: High Speed II" is rare due to its limited release and the popularity of its predecessor. This machine features advanced gameplay and is highly sought after by collectors who appreciate its detailed design and challenging features.

9. 1993 Sega “Star Wars: The Pinball”: Sega’s "Star Wars: The Pinball" is a rare machine from the early 90s, with only a few units in existence. Its rarity is due to its limited production run and the high demand from Star Wars fans. The machine features artwork and themes inspired by the original trilogy, making it a prized collectible.

10. 2001 Stern “Lord of the Rings”: Stern’s "Lord of the Rings" pinball machine is rare due to its limited production and the high demand among pinball enthusiasts and Lord of the Rings fans alike. The machine features intricate artwork and gameplay elements inspired by the beloved franchise, adding to its appeal and rarity.

Conclusion

The rarity of these pinball machines is a testament to their unique place in the history of arcade games. Each machine on this list offers a glimpse into a different era of pinball design and culture, making them highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts. Whether due to limited production runs, unique themes, or historical significance, these pinball machines represent some of the rarest and most desirable finds in the world of pinball.