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Miss Annabelle

Manufacturer: D. Gottlieb & Company (1931-1977) [Trade Name: Gottlieb]
Year: 1959
Date: August, 1959
Type: Electro-mechanical (EM)
Players: 1
Production: 1,300 units (confirmed)

About This Machine

Miss Annabelle is a rare and highly collectible electro-mechanical pinball machine from August 1959, manufactured by D. Gottlieb & Company. As one of the earliest music-themed games, it marks a notable point in the evolution of pinball's musical heritage, and it holds the distinction of being Gottlieb's first single-player game to use reel drum scoring.

Miss Annabelle features four flippers, five pop bumpers, two slingshots, two standup targets, and a gobble hole, making it a challenging and engaging game to play. The mechanical backbox animation is particularly notable, featuring a fan that steps fifteen times to reveal the lady, awarding 1-4 replays at the final step. This feature was carried over from game to game, adding an element of surprise for players. The machine also features a "Score To Beat" window on the backglass, allowing operators to display a suggested high score.

The design and art, by Roy Parker, are characteristically 1950s-style Gottlieb, with bold colors and a nostalgic charm. The theme, centered around music and singing, was a departure from traditional pinball themes at the time. Designed by Wayne Neyens, one of Gottlieb's most prolific designers, Miss Annabelle has become a sought-after collector's item, offering an exciting glimpse into late-1950s pinball with only 1,300 units produced.

Images (44)

Technical Details

Theme:
Music - People - Singing
Model Number:
158
Notable Features:
Flippers (4), Pop bumpers (5), Slingshots (2), Standup targets (2), Gobble hole (1). Mechanical backbox animation (fan moves). The fan steps fifteen times to reveal the lady and awards 1 to 4 replays at the fifteenth step (operator adjustable). This is a carryover feature from game to game. Backglass has a "Score To Beat" window allowing the operator to place a card behind the backglass showing a suggested high score visible to the player. Maximum displayed point score is 1,999 points. Sound: 2 bells, knocker

Credits

Designer:
Wayne Neyens
Artist:
Roy Parker