Components from mechanically operated gambling devices predating electronic or computerized systems constitute a distinct collectible category. These range from cast iron housings and ornate reel strips to intricate internal mechanisms like gears, springs, and levers. An example would be the original spinning reels with fruit symbols from a Mills Liberty Bell machine.
Preserving these elements offers a tangible link to the history of gaming and the evolution of technology. Restoration and collecting contribute to maintaining this historical record, providing insight into manufacturing techniques, design aesthetics, and the social context of these machines. Original components are crucial for maintaining the authenticity and value of vintage slot machines, making them significantly more desirable to collectors.