History of Slots

In the minds of most people, Charles Fey will be remembered as the creator of the modern day slot machine. It was in 1895 that Fey brought into creation the first slot machine. When he joined forces with the Mills Novelty Company in 1907, he modified his model creating for the first time the Mills Liberty Bell, as people came to call his slot machine. This is the model on which present day slot machines are based.

In the original Liberty Bell there was a real bell that would ring when a winning combination was scored. There were three reels that showed playing cards and the machine actually had the classical iron feet with the addition of toes. Although present day slot machines may feature multi reels, and reflect advanced technological processes along with a state of the art electronics, they are all based on the original Liberty Bell model. In addition, most slots today will still feature some version of a bell or chime to indicate when a winning jackpot has been achieved.

In 1910, following the Liberty Bell model was the Operator Bell model, which was also manufactured by the Mills Novelty Company. With this model was introduced the use of fruit symbols for the reels in addition to a coin funnel. In the year 1915, wood slot machines were introduced which included further modifications. Up until the 1930s, improved and advanced models of slot machines were being continually introduced. In one of these modifications a soundless bell was introduced, which led to this model being called the Silent Bell. Another feature that was introduced at this time was that of the double jackpot.

During the 30s, classic themed slot machines were manufactured by the Mills Novelty Company. Today, these same slot machines are held in great value by slot machine fans and collectors throughout the world. Examples of some of these are the Lion Head, the War Eagle, and the Roman Head, all of whose unique and classic designs make them of instant appeal among slots fans.

Today, in spite of the fact that there have been many technological advances throughout the years, the slot machine still stays true to the original idea behind Charles Fey’s early model. This may be one of the reasons that slot machines continue to be of special importance in casinos and in the hearts and minds of slots fans throughout the decades.