The 1890's was the golden age of bicycle riding, gambling, and cigar smoking. While its only 14 inches in length, this Waddell bicycle must have attracted folks from all three interests. The game was probably intended to be centerally located on a cigarstore counter where the customer could wager one nickel to win between 1 to 5 cigars. When a nickel is inserted and the lever pushed, the two spoked wheels spin around. The numbers on the rims are totaled by the player to provide the winning number of cigars according to a chart. The last coin played was always fully visible in a chamber at the right.
An outstanding antique trade stimulator and when displayed, it attracts attention today just as it did one hundred and thirty years ago. This one has a brass tag on the front with the display cabinet manufacturer's name “T.M.Quigley & Co. Logansport Ind.”. The oak case and mechanism have been fully restored.
Everything here is 1800's original with the exception of the award card, the glass panels and a replacement key for the coin box lock.
Excellent condition. Size is 20 1/4” X 5 3/4” X 13 1/2”
