Home >> Toys >> Other Toys

History of Gumball Machines

A gumball machine is a type of vending machine that releases a piece of gum when a coin is inserted into the coin slot. These machines are most often found in malls, supermarkets and toy stores. They have a long history that transformed them from food vending machines to interactive toys.

Creation
- According to gumballs.com, the first gumball machines appeared in 1907. However, machines that released blocks or sticks of gum were available as early as 1888 (see Resources).
Cost
- The first gumball machines charged a penny per piece. The average price in the United States is currently 25 cents.
Patent
- The Norris Manufacturing company patented the first line of gumball machines in 1923. The chrome line, dubbed "Master," wasn't actually manufactured until the 1930s.
Charity
- In 1934, the Ford Gum and Machine company gave money from sales of their gumballs to the Lion's Club. The company was based out of New York (see Resources).
Animation
- The Pulver Company created the first animated gum machine. They introduced the series in 1987.
Spiral machines
- The Wizard is the first spiral machine, and was created in 1994. The spiral machines have transformed these vending machines into interactive toys.

Other Toys