Jiggers (Jr)

The Jiggers (Jr) pinball machine, manufactured by Genco Manufacturing Company in 1932, holds a significant place in the history of pinball. As one of the earliest mechanical pinball machines, it showcases the evolution of the game from its humble beginnings to the modern-day marvels we know and love today. The Jiggers (Jr) is a prime example of the "Pure Mechanical" (PM) style of play, where players interact with physical mechanisms to score points.

Key gameplay features of the Jiggers (Jr) include 1 cent or 5 cent play options, allowing players to choose their level of commitment. The Jigger Hole, situated at the top of the playfield, is a clever mechanism that doubles the playfield's scoring values. Solid aluminum fittings add an industrial touch to the machine's design, giving it a distinctive look and feel -- designer Harvey Heiss reportedly used aluminum pins and castings, drawing on his foundry experience, which helped Genco distinguish this game (a near-copy of Bally's 1932 'Goofy Junior') from Bally's all-wood original.

Unfortunately, there isn't much information available on the theme or art of the Jiggers (Jr), which is not uncommon for pinball machines from this era. However, its rarity and age make it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. As one of only a few known examples of Genco's early mechanical pinball designs, the Jiggers (Jr) offers a unique glimpse into the development of the game we enjoy today.