Slot machines are an essential component of a casino. This essential object serves as the symbol of all casinos, whether they are physical establishments or operate on the internet. However, have you ever pondered upon the precise origins of the original slot machine and the subsequent transformations that have led to its contemporary form? Our informative tutorial will transport you to the past and reveal the historical process of slot machine production.

The inception of slot machines

Prior to the 20th century, the phrase “slot machine” encompassed both gambling devices and vending machines. However, many monikers are assigned to these devices. British individuals refer to them as “fruit machines” or “one-armed bandits,” but Australians refer to them as “poker machines.”

In the 19th century, the first slot machine was invented.

The inaugural slot machine was created in 1891 by Sittman and Pitt, a company based in New York. This machine featured five drums and a modest collection of 50 playing cards. Gradually, the machine became a common sight in the majority of bars, accessible to everyone who could insert a nickel and operate the lever. The prizes comprised complimentary beverages or cigars from the establishment, hence no cash rewards were provided.

Who is the inventor of slot machines?

Charles Augustus Fey is credited with designing and developing the inaugural modern slot machine sometime between 1887 and 1895, although the precise year remains uncertain. The machine was the first to incorporate automatic payments by streamlining the win recognition process and replacing the original five drums with three reels. In addition, Fey replaced the cards with five distinct bell symbols: diamonds, hearts, horseshoes, horsespades, and a liberty bell. The machine was named “Liberty Bell” because the largest payoff occurred when three bell symbols were matched.

Due to Fey’s failure to get a patent for his innovation, numerous other manufacturers began replicating similar equipment.

Slots experienced remarkable advancements during the 20th century.

Notwithstanding the prohibition on slot machines in 1902, the Liberty Bell machine was produced. Nevertheless, monetary rewards were substituted with confections or chewing gum.

In 1907, Herbert Mills, a developer based in Chicago, invented a novel slot machine called the Operator Bell. After one year, this machine became ubiquitous in bars, shops, and bowling alleys. At this point, the slot machines were enhanced with the inclusion of the “BAR” symbol, which drew inspiration from the Bell-Fruit Company. Therefore, fruits such as lemons or plums serve as symbols on the machine.

The advent of electromechanical devices and video slots

Bally introduced the inaugural electromechanical slot machine, named “Money Honey,” in 1964. Despite the initial act of pulling the lever, the machine’s reels were subsequently operated by electricity. There were no restrictions on the amount that could be deposited, allowing the payout to reach a maximum of 500 coins. This marked the onset of slot machines’ widespread appeal.

In 1976, Fortune Coin, a Las Vegas-based firm, introduced the inaugural video slot machine at the Las Vegas Hilton Hotel. Following the endorsement of the Nevada State Gaming Commission, Fortune Coin was acquired by IGT.

In 1996, WMS Industries Inc. created a video slot called “Reel ‘Em” that included a second screen bonus round, marking another successful development in the industry. The game proved successful in enabling participants to obtain additional payments.