Super '8'

The Stoner Manufacturing Company's Super (July 1934) is a rare and fascinating electro-mechanical pinball machine from the early days of commercial pinball production in the United States, designed by Wendell Bartelt. It's part of Stoner's "Aristocrat" series of games.

What sets the Super apart from other early pinball machines is its clever use of the "Magic Button," located below the coin slide on the front of the game. This feature allows a low score to be increased by pushing the button and inserting another nickel, letting some played balls be played again - up to six times per game, for a maximum cost of 35 cents. This mechanic not only adds an element of strategy but also provides a unique twist on traditional gameplay for the era. The machine's simple, compact design measures 41 inches in length and 21 inches in width.

Little is known about the Super's theme or artwork, which is not uncommon for machines from this era, and the machine originally cost 10 balls for 5 cents to play. Its electro-mechanical design and distinctive Magic Button feature make it an attractive piece for collectors and historians looking to learn more about the early days of pinball.