Special Deluxe Baseball

The Special Deluxe Baseball is an electro-mechanical pinball machine from 1954 (model 100), manufactured by Williams. This machine holds a notable place in pinball history as a licensed novelty-play-only game produced specifically for the City of New York — its playfield is marked 'MADE EXPRESSLY FOR USE IN NEW YORK.'

Gameplay on the Special Deluxe Baseball is straightforward, with players attempting to score points by navigating the ball through the playfield. The machine's notable features include a super-sized backbox with score-reel scoring, which adds an extra layer of excitement to gameplay. The single-entry coin chute accepts nickels, dimes, and quarters, and lights on the playfield indicate men on base, mirroring the game of baseball itself.

The machine's backbox animation of men running bases adds an extra touch of charm, immersing players in the world of baseball. It compares closely to Williams' other 1954 baseball titles, 'Super Pennant Baseball' and 'Super Star Baseball.' Little is known about the designer behind this machine, but its licensed novelty status and animated backbox make it a fascinating piece for collectors and historians to study.