Ivory Golf

The Ivory Golf is a rare and intriguing example of early electro-mechanical (EM) pinball design. As one of the earliest known pinball machines from J.H. Keeney and Company Incorporated, it represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the game. Produced in September 1935, during the dawn of pinball's popularity, Ivory Golf showcases the innovative spirit of its era.

Gameplay on Ivory Golf is notable for its simplicity and fairness. The machine allows for either one or two balls to be played per session, with a second ball issued if the first fails to score a payout. This feature demonstrates an early emphasis on player satisfaction and experience. The cabinet measures 41 inches long by 21 inches wide, a compact size that was likely more accessible to home and small-location operators.

As one of the earliest known pinball machines from J.H. Keeney and Company Incorporated, Ivory Golf offers a unique glimpse into the early payout-machine era of coin-operated gaming. It was produced in two versions: Model A, a straight payout table, and Model B, a non-payout free-play table whose Free Game Unit recorded winning scores on a dial that could add and subtract, letting players use their winnings as replays. Unfortunately, with limited information available on the machine's designer, much remains to be discovered about this early gem.