21,000

Meet 21,000, an electro-mechanical pinball machine from Rock-ola Manufacturing Corporation, built in Chicago in July 1935. It was originally produced as Rock-ola's 1935 '21' and is the same game but with higher score values.

A solenoid kicker above the bottom Free Play hole kicks the ball back into play, keeping the action going. The machine's reliance on a 6-volt battery power supply is also notable, highlighting the resourcefulness of early pinball manufacturers working before widespread AC power infrastructure in coin-op equipment.

Unfortunately, little is known about the design, art, or theme behind 21,000. Its backbox measures a compact 15 5/8 by 15 1/2 by 2 5/8 inches, reflecting the modest scale and simplicity of early pinball machines. Enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to study and play 21,000, gaining insight into the pioneering era of pinball history.