Item Report
American Depression Era Oak and Metal Floor-Standing Gumball/Peanut Vending Machine
By: Stalton Vending Machine Co., Chicago, ILL (as indicated on lower front panel)
Style: Industrial Americana, Depression Era Vending
Origin: USA
Materials: Oak wood, metal (steel and/or cast iron), glass
Age: circa 1935-1945
Condition: Very Good (visible age wear to metal and base, decal slightly faded, appears complete but working condition unconfirmed, not professionally restored)
Value: $200 - $400 (at auction, depending on condition and completeness)
Maker's Marks / Writing: Embossed/engraved on metal: 'Stalton Vending Machine Co. Chicago 39 ILL.' Side decal: 'WE SALUTE YOU' (shows soldier and child)
Date: 2025-06-22 09:40:21.574978
Description:
This is a floor-standing mechanical vending machine from the Depression Era, circa 1930s-1940s. The body is crafted from oak wood, with a metal coin and dispensing mechanism, and a round, weighted cast-iron base painted green. The machine dispensed gumballs, peanuts, or candy and features a glass window to display the goods, a turn-crank for dispensing, and a 'We Salute You!' patriotic decal on the side, referencing support for WWII troops. These machines were commonly found in public places such as drugstores, diners, and bus/train stations.
Curator Questions
Curated by Jade
Assessment:
A genuine period floor vending machine with Americana and wartime appeal. The oak and metal construction is classic for the era and the patriotic motifs add collectible value. Machines in complete, unrestored, and working condition command higher prices, while wear is common and accepted among collectors. A word about fakes: While some reproduction machines exist, this example's wear, construction, and period graphics suggest it is likely authentic.
Individual Images:
whole item
Provenance:
No documentation provided; provenance not established from image alone.
Condition:
Very Good (visible age wear to metal and base, decal slightly faded, appears complete but working condition unconfirmed, not professionally restored)
Identification Score: 95%
The machine matches known Depression-era and WWII-era vending machines with similar oak cabinet and cast-metal dispensing mechanisms. The patriotic 'We Salute You' decal, company information, and overall styling are very characteristic of the period. The base and build are also correct for 1930s-40s American production.
Authenticity Score: 85%
The age-typical patina, visible period wear, and original company markings strongly point to authenticity. No signs of modern hardware or reproduction elements are apparent, and the 'We Salute You' decal is aged and in keeping with authentic machines from this era. Slight deduction due to the need for a closer inspection of internal hardware and possible replaced parts.
Image Memory Note
Distinctive floor model vending machine, oak and metal with green enamel base, WWII patriotism motif, maker marked Stalton Vending Machine Co. Chicago, suitable for American Depression/Wartime memorabilia collectors.
Keywords
vending machine, oak, Depression era, Americana, floor-standing, Stalton, wartime memorabilia, USA
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