Collector guide

Slot Machine Auction Checklist

Set an all-in maximum using buyer fees, freight, legality and restoration risk.

Private slot-machine ownership is a legal and practical question before it is a decorating decision. Laws can distinguish possession, sale, transport and operation, and an antique exception in one jurisdiction may not exist in another.

1. Buyer premium

Buyer premium should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

2. Tax

Tax should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

3. Freight

Freight should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

4. Liftgate and inside delivery

Liftgate and inside delivery should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

5. Power and stand

Power and stand should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

6. Restoration contingency

Restoration contingency should be evaluated in the context of the destination law, exact machine, age, intended use, cabinet completeness and total delivered cost. Document the evidence, separate free-play operation from lawful ownership, and do not rely on a reseller’s nationwide legality claim.

Browse relevant machines and parts

Check destination law, actual photographs, free-play configuration, seller terms and freight before buying.

View eBay listings
Legal boundary: This site provides a research checklist, not legal advice or a state-by-state legality determination. Check current official law for every origin, destination and place of operation.

Related resources

Affiliate disclosure: qualifying purchases through some merchant links may generate a commission. Recommendations remain editorially independent.