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Keen-O

Manufacturer: J. H. Keeney and Company Incorporated, of Chicago, Illinois, USA (1934-1964)
Year: 1937
Date: May, 1937
Type: Electro-mechanical (EM)
Players: 1

About This Machine

Keen-O, manufactured by J. H. Keeney and Company Incorporated in 1937, is a rare electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine that holds a significant place in the history of pinball. As one of the earliest machines produced by this Chicago-based company, which operated from 1934 to 1964, Keen-O showcases the evolution of pinball design and mechanics during its formative years.

This five-ball machine for five cents boasts an impressive 19 spring bumpers, a feature that was relatively common in early pinballs but still a notable aspect of Keen-O's gameplay. The inclusion of a pendulum tilt mechanism in the backbox adds to the machine's mechanical interest. While the theme and designer remain unknown, Keen-O's design and features demonstrate the innovative spirit of its time.

As one of the earliest EM machines from J. H. Keeney and Company Incorporated, Keen-O offers pinball enthusiasts a glimpse into the development of this beloved game. Its rarity and intriguing mechanics make it a fascinating specimen for collectors and historians to study.

Images (16)

Technical Details

Notable Features:
5 balls for 5 cents. Spring bumpers (19). Pendulum tilt is in the backbox.

Credits