Gold Star Kickers

The Gold Star Kickers, manufactured by Shyvers Manufacturing Company of Chicago, Illinois in 1937, is a rare and significant electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine that showcases the early days of the sport. As one of the earliest surviving examples from this era, it provides valuable insight into the evolution of pinball design and gameplay.

The Gold Star Kickers features a unique combination of mechanisms and play options, including 1 to 10-ball play and 16 kickers strategically placed throughout the playfield. This machine's backbox is notably short, setting it apart from its contemporaries. The score projection on the backglass is also an innovative feature for the time period. What's more, this machine can be found with or without a payout mechanism, highlighting the flexibility and adaptability of early pinball manufacturers.

The machine's theme, "Pageantry - Women," is an interesting aspect of its design, reflecting the cultural attitudes of the 1930s. Unfortunately, little information is known about the designer, but this lack of documentation only adds to the allure of this historic piece. Despite its age and rarity, the Gold Star Kickers remains a fascinating specimen for pinball enthusiasts and historians alike, offering a glimpse into the early days of the sport's development.