Crown Jewels

Crown Jewels, manufactured by Block Marble Company in 1948, is a rare electro-mechanical pinball machine and a conversion of Gottlieb's 1947 'Humpty Dumpty.' Little is known about its designer, but its features offer insight into the innovative spirit of early pinball just after the flipper's introduction.

The machine boasts six flippers and ten passive bumpers, along with two kick-out holes that allow the ball to exit the playfield quickly. The addition of a time clock adds an element of urgency, while the sound of two bells provides an authentic playing experience. Its extensive use of flippers is notable given that flippers were still a very new innovation at this stage in pinball's development, having debuted only the year before.

One of the most striking aspects of Crown Jewels is its minimalist aesthetic. Unlike later pinball machines with elaborate artwork and themes, Crown Jewels features a simple, industrial design that reflects the utilitarian approach of early pinball manufacturers. This understated style has contributed to the machine's appeal among collectors and enthusiasts, who are drawn to its rarity and historical importance.