Coin-Operated Locomotive [Model 226]

Working Model published 139 years ago by Smith, William T.

Impossible to emulate

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Coin-Operated Locomotive © 1885 William T. Smith.

Inserting a coin made the miniature locomotive come to life as music played while pistons drove the wheels and levers pulled a string to ring the engine's bell.

TECHNICAL/MACHINE PICT.

Model Number: 226

TRIVIA

One of the earliest designers of working models in the United States was William T. Smith who created the Locomotive in 1885. Fitting the device's theme, Smith's working model was commonly placed in railroad stations to maximize exposure to a constant stream of potential customers.

Although entirely made by hand, the battery-powered model was produced in large quantities that allowed for wide distribution.

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