Velvet

The Velvet, manufactured by J.H. Keeney and Company Incorporated of Chicago in 1936, is a rare and intriguing example of early electro-mechanical (EM) pinball design. As one of the earliest known pinball machines from this era, it holds significant importance in the history of the game, offering a glimpse into the evolution of gameplay and mechanisms that would shape the industry for decades to come.

One of the Velvet's most notable features is its "Cash-in or Replay" system, which allows players to either collect their winnings after each game or opt to play again without inserting another coin. This innovative design not only adds an element of strategy but also hints at the emerging concept of replay value in pinball machines. The machine's possible awards range from 10¢ to $2 on the first play and increase to $20 on subsequent replays, with the Velvet Hole paying a lucrative $2 on either play. What's more, replay rewards of $2 or higher are dispensed as tickets, adding an element of excitement to the gameplay experience.

While little is known about the machine's design, art, or theme, its cabinet dimensions – 52 inches long and 26 inches wide – suggest a relatively compact footprint for its time. The lack of additional information only serves to heighten the mystique surrounding this early pinball gem, making it an attractive find for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the rarity and historical significance of such machines.