Flying Trapeze (Junior)

The Flying Trapeze (Junior) from D. Gottlieb & Company, manufactured in December 1934, is a rare and historic electro-mechanical pinball machine that showcases the evolution of the game's early days. Along with its larger Senior counterpart, it was the first machine to feature an electrically-operated ringing bell, a notable step in the development of electro-mechanical pinball. The Junior cabinet measures 40 by 21 inches, sold for $39.50, and operates from a battery.

The Flying Trapeze (Junior) stands out with its 'Flying Balls' feature, offering 10 balls for just 5 cents - an unparalleled level of playtime value for its era. The ringing bell adds to the sensory experience, immersing players in the game's circus/carnival theme. This machine's gameplay is a fascinating blend of chance and skill, making it a captivating piece for pinball enthusiasts.

Design-wise, the Flying Trapeze (Junior) embodies the aesthetic of early 20th-century amusement parks and circuses, though specific artwork details are not well-documented, leaving room for imagination among collectors and historians. As a surviving example from the first few years of pinball's mechanical era, this machine holds an important place in the history of the game.