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American Electromechanical Pinball Machine, Gottlieb's Target Alpha

Matt : Petroliana and Vintage Motoring

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American Electromechanical Pinball Machine, Gottlieb's Target Alpha
Presentation Script

Presenting this classic Gottlieb Target Alpha pinball machine, a true arcade icon. This electromechanical game from 1976 captures the vibrant, golden age of American arcades. Crafted with a sturdy wood cabinet, metal legs, and a vibrant, hand-drawn backglass and playfield. Clearly marked "Gottlieb's Target Alpha," featuring distinctive sci-fi artwork by Gordon Morison. This appears to be an authentic, well-preserved example, showing age-appropriate wear and confirmed working condition. A highly desirable collector's piece, estimated at auction between $1,200 and $2,500. A fantastic piece of American arcade history, offering both nostalgic play and significant display value.

Item Report

American Electromechanical Pinball Machine, Gottlieb's Target Alpha

By: D. Gottlieb & Co. (Artwork by Gordon Morison)

Style: Arcade Game / Electromechanical Pinball

Origin: United States

Materials: Wood cabinet, metal legs, glass playfield cover, plastic playfield components, electronic and mechanical internal mechanisms

Age: Circa 1976

Condition: Good (working condition, consistent wear for age, minor scuffs to cabinet)

Value: Authentic (working condition): $1,200 - $2,500. Reproductions of this specific model are not commonly produced; a non-functional decorative copy would have significantly lower value, typically under $500.

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: Gottlieb's TARGET ALPHA, D. Gottlieb & Co., 25¢ coin slots, 'WORKING' sticky note on playfield.

Date: 2026-07-07 12:21:11.213338

Description:

A vintage electromechanical pinball machine, 'Target Alpha,' manufactured by D. Gottlieb & Co. The machine features vibrant sci-fi themed artwork on the backglass and playfield, with a four-player score display. It includes classic pinball elements such as flippers, pop bumpers, and drop targets, characteristic of mid-1970s arcade games.

Assessment:

This Gottlieb Target Alpha is a well-preserved example of a classic electromechanical pinball machine from the mid-1970s. Its vibrant artwork and 'working' status make it a desirable piece for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage arcade games. The visible wear is consistent with its age and use.

Individual Images:

  • whole pinball machine front view
  • whole pinball machine three-quarter view
  • detail of backglass
  • detail of playfield
  • side view of pinball machine

Provenance:

N/A

Condition:

Good (working condition, consistent wear for age, minor scuffs to cabinet)

Identification Score: 100%

The item is clearly identified by the prominent 'Gottlieb's TARGET ALPHA' title on the backglass, along with its distinctive design and features typical of a 1976 electromechanical pinball machine.

Authenticity Score: 95%

The machine exhibits all the characteristics of an authentic Gottlieb Target Alpha from 1976, including the specific artwork, cabinet design, and electromechanical components. The visible wear and patina are consistent with its age, and there are no signs of it being a modern reproduction or significant alteration. The 'WORKING' note further supports its originality as a functional vintage piece.

Image Memory Note

None     None

Keywords

Pinball machine, Gottlieb, Target Alpha, Electromechanical, Arcade game, Vintage, 1976, American, Sci-fi, Collectible

The report was edited after initial Artmink draft. Original AI draft preserved in Artmink audit history.
Report ID:  : z9r3af

Comparables (Similar Items)

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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