Coca-Cola Vending Machine, W.H. Ell & Co. Sovereigns Machine, and Lalique Works at Lion and Unicorn

An early English gold coin exchanger dating back to 1905 England by W.H. Ell & Co. is one of the leading lots in Lion and Unicorn’s Decorative Home Interiors Auction. This early English gold coin exchanger provided change for sovereigns and half sovereign coins. A sovereign or half sovereign coin inserted in the proper slot was verified for weight, triggering a mechanism to operate the brass slide below. In exchange for the sovereign, one of its 19 copper or brass cups containing an appropriate amount in change would appear. If the coin was of improper weight, it was returned through a slot. Receptacles in the rear of the machine accommodate the empty cups after the change is received. Its brass mechanism is housed in a mahogany case with a glass front.

Another notable vending machine in the Decorative Home Interiors sale is a bright red Vendo XF 39B Coca-Cola. This 1950s Coca-Cola vending machine has been modified with its signature bright red paint, and its interior has been retrofitted into a gun cabinet with keys. Vendo started producing vending machines in the United States in 1937 in Dallas, Texas. The company has since manufactured stack machines, glass front vendors, hot food displays, refrigerated showcases, ice cream cases, Micro Market designs, and some of the best vending machines known today. The sale also includes Lalique glassware, Erté collectibles, Wedgwood and Royal Doulton porcelain, Swarovski ware, Beanie Babies, celebrity memorabilia, and more. Find the listed items and more on Lion and Unicorn and register to place a bid.