This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/28/2023
Genco “Gypsy Grandma” Coin-Operated Fortune Telling Automaton with Original Stand. Chicago: Genco Mfg. & Sales Co., [ca. 1957]. Coin-operated automaton. After you pose a yes or no question into the “microphone” (while not actually a microphone) and feed a dime into the slot, “Gypsy Grandma” swivels her head, and her right arm moves to her supply of fortune telling cards, picks one up, and drops the fortune card into her cauldron, which then falls out of the tray for you to take. Original wood cabinet with glass and metal enclosure, with colored plastic “tent” on top. With keys. Decals on glass read: “’It’s Amazing!’ She Actually Hands You Your Fortune!”, as well as instructions. Approximately 21 ½ x 23 x 44”. Some wear, soiling, Grandma’s moving hand is missing two fingers, lights are apparently burned out, plastic tent chipped and partially repaired with glue, red tape reinforcement at top of tent. Mechanism partially works (her head swivels, and her arm moves), but requires adjustment. With original cast iron stand. Base diameter approximately 24” and approximately 33” high without machine. A very good example of this rare and desirable fortune-teller automaton. Third party shipping required.