Standard

The Standard Pinball Machine, manufactured by the Standard Manufacturing Company of Chicago in 1933, represents one of the earliest and most enigmatic entries in the history of pinball. As a Pure Mechanical (PM) game, it predates the introduction of electronic components, relying solely on mechanical systems to create gameplay. This machine's existence is a significant discovery for historians, offering a glimpse into the development of the game during its formative years.

One cent play was the advertised price point for this game, with an operator's price strip indicating that 7 balls could be played for just one penny. Although the factory-shipped price for 10 balls may be slightly visible underneath, it is unclear if this was intended to be a standard pricing scheme or merely a leftover from earlier production runs. What makes the Standard Machine unique is its relatively compact size, measuring approximately 22 inches long and 11 inches wide, while still managing to provide an engaging gameplay experience.

As for notable aspects of design and art, the machine's visual aesthetic reflects the era in which it was created, with clean lines and simple yet effective artwork. There are no discernible theme or narrative elements present on the game, lending itself to speculation about its original purpose or intended audience. Interestingly, the lack of information surrounding this machine's history makes it all the more intriguing for collectors and historians, who continue to unravel the mysteries surrounding early pinball games like the Standard Machine.