Moon-Hi

The Moon-Hi, produced by the Great Northern Chair Company of Chicago in April 1932, holds a place in the early days of pinball history. As a purely mechanical pinball machine, it predates the electromechanical and electronic eras that would follow, relying entirely on springs, gravity, and manual mechanisms rather than flippers, which had not yet been invented. Its simplicity and compact design make it an intriguing piece for collectors and enthusiasts seeking to understand the evolution of the game.

Gameplay on the Moon-Hi is straightforward, accepting 1-cent or 5-cent play, with the cabinet advertised as 31 inches long and 16 inches wide. When new, it sold for $12.00, with an optional strong wood stand available for an additional $2.50. The manufacturer advertised that the playfield was interchangeable with that of its companion release, the Great Northern Chair Company's 1932 'Zip'.

The Moon-Hi's mechanical operation offers a glimpse into the game's early development stages, well before flippers or electrical scoring existed. However, due to its age and rarity, detailed information about this machine is limited, making it a valuable piece for those interested in pinball history.