The Flea

The Flea, manufactured by Arlington Sales Company of Coldwater, Michigan in 1932, marks one of the earliest iterations of pinball machines. As a Pure Mechanical (PM) game, it predates the advent of electric pinball and demonstrates the evolution of the game from a simple mechanical device to the complex electronic systems we know today. Its existence highlights the early experimentation with gameplay mechanics that would eventually shape the modern pinball experience.

The Flea's gameplay is notable for its simplicity and thriftiness. For just one cent, players can launch ten balls onto the playfield, one of which is red and one green. The machine's mechanical design allows for a straightforward, low-cost experience that was likely appealing to early pinball enthusiasts. The Flea's lack of theme or elaborate artwork makes it a prime example of the pioneering days of pinball, where innovation and experimentation were key drivers.

The scarcity of information on this machine makes its discovery all the more fascinating. As one of the earliest known pinball machines, The Flea provides a glimpse into the game's early development. Its mechanical design, minimalistic art, and low-cost gameplay make it an intriguing relic for collectors and historians alike.