Private slot-machine ownership is a legal and practical question before it is a decorating decision. Laws can distinguish possession, sale, transport and operation, and an antique exception in one jurisdiction may not exist in another.
1. Buyer premium
Asking prices are only a starting point. Use completed-market evidence where available and adjust for exact model, cabinet completeness, documented operation, restoration quality and the cost of getting several hundred pounds of hardware into your room.
2. Tax
Asking prices are only a starting point. Use completed-market evidence where available and adjust for exact model, cabinet completeness, documented operation, restoration quality and the cost of getting several hundred pounds of hardware into your room.
3. Freight
Plan the move as a heavy-appliance job. Know the actual loaded weight, keep the cabinet stable, protect controls and doors, use adequate help and secure the machine in the vehicle so one hard stop cannot turn a collectible into a repair project.
4. Liftgate and inside delivery
Shipping risk belongs in the purchase decision. Get packed dimensions and weight, confirm who is responsible for crating and insurance, and document the cabinet immediately before dispatch and again before signing for delivery.
5. Power and stand
Read the nameplate before connecting power, inspect the cord and inlet, and stop if you find heat damage, exposed conductors or battery leakage. Modern slot hardware can contain model-specific electronics that deserve qualified repair rather than trial-and-error substitution.
6. Restoration contingency
Work through restoration contingency with the exact cabinet in front of you. Separate what the seller says from what you can document, and do not let a cosmetic first impression override serviceability, legal due diligence or total cost.
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Check destination law, actual photographs, free-play configuration, seller terms and freight before buying.
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