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1961 Gottlieb Big Casino

Manufacturer : Gottlieb

Year : 1961

Players : 1

Type : Electro-mechanical

Theme : Playing Cards

Production : 1,600 units

Status : Sold

 

Gottlieb’s Big Casino (1961) is a classic single-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine from the early “woodrail” era. Known for its card-themed artwork and unique wide-set flipper layout, it delivers a distinctive gameplay experience that stands out from later EM designs.

 

Game Features

  • Single-player electro-mechanical (EM) pinball machine

  • Early 1960s “woodrail” era design

  • Card-themed playfield and backglass artwork

  • Wide-set flippers with a central lane layout

  • “BIG CASINO” rollover feature for scoring and specials

  • Card-based backglass animation with light-up combinations

  • Double-match feature for increased replay chances

  • Traditional mechanical score reels

Overview

Big Casino offers a unique take on early pinball gameplay, combining classic EM mechanics with a card-based scoring system. The wide-set flippers create a different feel compared to standard layouts, requiring more precise control and shot planning.

Players work to complete card combinations and light features through rollovers and targets, with the backglass providing visual feedback as progress is made. The “BIG CASINO” rollovers and double-match feature add additional opportunities for scoring and replays.

As a woodrail-era machine, Big Casino represents an important period in pinball history and remains a sought-after collectible for enthusiasts of early electro-mechanical games.

Have questions or interested in this game? Or have a particular pinball machine you are looking for? I can locate and restore one for you.

View Restoration Details Playfield (Top Side) • Fully disassembled, cleaned, waxed, and conditioned • New rubbers, lane guides, posts, bulbs, and pinball • New flipper bats • Standup switches and rollover switches polished and adjusted • Plastics cleaned and conditioned Playfield (Underside) • Complete flipper rebuilds (coils, stops, switches, links, springs) • Pop bumper assemblies rebuilt • All relays cleaned, filed, and properly adjusted • Stepper units fully disassembled, cleaned, and calibrated Cabinet & Bottom Board • New power cord and fuse holders • Bottom board fully disassembled and cleaned • Relays, step units, and score motor serviced and adjusted • Jones plugs cleaned for solid connections • Cabinet cleaned inside and out Backbox / Head • Scoring reels disassembled, cleaned, and properly adjusted • Stepper units and relays serviced • New bulbs installed Additional Work • Weak or burned coils replaced as needed • Coin door fully disassembled, cleaned, and polished with new coin entry plates • Chime box cleaned, polished, and rebuilt • Shooter assembly polished with new springs installed • Metal trim, side rails, and legs polished • New locks, bolts, and leg levelers/castors installed • New sheet of playfield glass installed • New bulbs installed throughout entire game Warranty ✔ 1-Year Warranty (local sales) ✔ One service visit included within first year (includes playfield waxing, rubber replacement if needed, and full function check)

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Pinball Resurrection | Electro-Mechanical Pinball Restoration, Repair & Sales in Feasterville, PA

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