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American Vintage 'Lucky Star' Tabletop Pinball Game

Marilyn : Mid-Century Modern

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American Vintage 'Lucky Star' Tabletop Pinball Game
Original Presentation Script

Presenting this vintage American 'Lucky Star' tabletop pinball game. This charming collectible is a classic example of a pre-war bagatelle-style game. Crafted from wood with a vibrant lithographed playfield, featuring numerous metal pins. The base clearly shows it was made in the U.S.A. by Durable Toy & Novelty Corp. In very good condition for its age, this is an authentic piece from the 1930s-1940s. These nostalgic games are sought after by collectors, with an auction estimate of $200 to $400. A delightful piece of American toy history, capturing the spirit of early arcade entertainment.

Used for this report's TTS and avatar presentation.

Item Report

American Vintage 'Lucky Star' Tabletop Pinball Game

By: Durable Toy & Novelty Corp. (Sole Distributors for Emmets Toy Corp.)

Style: American Vintage Toy / Arcade Game

Origin: United States of America

Materials: Wood, lithographed paper, metal pins

Age: Circa 1930s-1940s

Condition: Very Good (light wear to frame and playfield, consistent with age, not officially graded)

Value: Authentic: $200 - $400; Reproduction: $20 - $50

Peer-Reviewed Market Values

Dating Range
Pending structured dating
Auction Liquidation
Pending structured market values
Fair Market Value
Pending structured market values
Replacement Value
Pending structured market values
Comparables Used
1 comparable
Research Confidence
Not Run

Maker's Marks / Writing: DURABLE TOY & NOVELTY CORP. SOLE DISTRIBUTORS FOR EMMETS TOY CORP. NEW YORK, N.Y. MADE IN U.S.A.

Date: 2026-07-07 02:33:25.797267

Description:

A vintage tabletop pinball-style game, also known as a bagatelle game, featuring a wooden frame and a colorful lithographed playfield. The playfield is adorned with stars, scoring zones (200, 300, 400, 500, 1000, 2000), and numerous metal pins. It includes 'FREE BALL' and 'BALL OUT' mechanisms. The design reflects popular American toy aesthetics of the mid-20th century.

Assessment:

This 'Lucky Star' game is a charming and authentic example of a popular American tabletop game from the pre-war to early post-war era. Its vibrant graphics and functional design make it a desirable collectible for enthusiasts of vintage toys and Americana. The visible maker's mark confirms its origin and period.

Individual Images:

  • whole pinball game front view
  • detail of lower playfield
  • detail of center playfield
  • detail of upper right playfield
  • detail of maker's mark
  • detail of upper left corner

Provenance:

N/A

Condition:

Very Good (light wear to frame and playfield, consistent with age, not officially graded)

Identification Score: 100%

The item is clearly identifiable as a 'Lucky Star' tabletop pinball game, with the name prominently displayed and the maker's mark visible, confirming its type and manufacturer.

Authenticity Score: 95%

The construction, materials, graphics style, and visible maker's mark are entirely consistent with known examples of Durable Toy & Novelty Corp. games from the 1930s-1940s. The wear and patina observed on the frame and playfield are also indicative of genuine age. There are no signs of modern reproduction.

Image Memory Note

None     None

Keywords

American, Vintage, Tabletop Game, Pinball, Bagatelle, Lucky Star, Durable Toy & Novelty Corp., Emmets Toy Corp., 1930s, 1940s, Toy, Collectible

The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
Report ID:  : a9az89

Comparables (Similar Items)

Bally Wizard Pinball Machine with Tommy
Bally Wizard Pinball Machine with Tommy
liveauctioneers.com
Sold $975 + 12% BP
USA · 1970s · Wood, Metal, Plastic
A classic Bally Pinball Wizard pinball machine, known for its engaging gameplay and vibrant artwork.
View source record
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/item/47705014_bally-pinball-wizard-pinball-machine-minneapolis-mn