Planet Ball

The Bingo Novelty Manufacturing Company's 1932 "Planet Ball" comes from the formative first years of coin-operated pinball. Built in Chicago in February 1932, this pure mechanical tabletop/counter game exemplifies the pioneering spirit of the nascent industry. Its straightforward design and low price of play catered to the masses, making it an accessible and affordable form of entertainment during the Great Depression.

The game's mechanics are remarkably simple yet effective. Players could get five balls for a single cent, or ten balls for five cents. This emphasis on quantity over complexity speaks to the era's focus on providing affordable amusement to a broad audience.

Little is known about the machine's designer, theme, or artwork beyond its gameplay mechanics and pricing structure. Nevertheless, "Planet Ball" stands as an interesting artifact in pinball history, bridging the gap between early mechanical contraptions and the modern games that followed. Its place within this transitional period makes it a fascinating find for collectors and enthusiasts of classic pinball machines.