Flipper Clown

The Flipper Clown, manufactured by D. Gottlieb & Company in March 1962, is a classic example of the company's early-1960s electro-mechanical add-a-ball games. Designed by Wayne Neyens with artwork by Roy Parker, this single-player machine had a confirmed production run of 1,550 units and features the mechanical backbox animation that was a hallmark of Gottlieb games from this era.

The Flipper Clown offers a playfield built around two flippers, four pop bumpers, two slingshots, and two roto-targets. The roto-targets in particular reward accurate shooting, giving players spinning target banks to pick apart for points. The machine's maximum displayed point score is 9,999 points, and its soundtrack comes from three bells and a knocker - the authentic voice of early-1960s pinball.

The machine's design and artwork are quintessential examples of the 1960s pinball aesthetic. The colorful, whimsical theme featuring a happy clown surrounded by circus elements is characteristic of Roy Parker's signature style for Gottlieb during this era, and the circus/carnival theme fits neatly alongside the company's other 'Flipper'-titled add-a-ball games of the same period.