Potter & Potter Auctions
Live Auction

Coin Op, Advertising & Carnival

Thu, Oct 15, 2026 11:00AM EDT
  2026-10-15 11:00:00 2026-10-15 11:00:00 America/New_York Potter & Potter Auctions Potter & Potter Auctions : Coin Op, Advertising & Carnival https://auction.potterauctions.com/auctions/potter-potter/coin-op-advertising-carnival-23648
Featuring the collection of lifelong coin-op enthusiast and bon vivant Tim LaGanke, our fall auction features arcade machines, carnival rides, automatons, animated window displays, and all manner of unusual mechanical novelties. Complementing these animatronic and coin-operated marvels are a host of vending and slot machines, gambling devices, masks, and unusual objects from days gone by.
Potter & Potter Auctions info@potterauctions.com
Lot 1

Snake Charmer / Trumpeter Automaton.

Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000
Starting Bid
$500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$30 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

Snake Charmer / Trumpeter Automaton. Circa 1910s. Large automaton of a standing woman in Middle-Eastern costume with a (later) snake in her hand (there is a loose trumpet with this figure). When plugged in, she bends back and forth at the waist (working). Approximately 39 x 13 x 13". Figure is on a padded, cushion base. Possibly made to represent "Little Egypt," the famous dancer at the 1893 World's Fair. 

Condition

Figure a bit worn, several cracks on her face and hands, feet with painted slippers (one foot worn with some paint missing) the trumpet seems to be the original accessory (the snake is a later rubber snake). Very good. 

Available payment options

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Amex
  • Diners
  • Discover
  • JCB
  • Union Pay

If your bid is successful, as an alternative to in-house shipping, we can provide you with a list of shippers. We will not be responsible for the acts or omissions of carriers or packers whether or not recommended by us. Property will not be released to the shipper without the buyer's written consent and until payment has been made in full. Packing and handling by us of purchased lots is at the entire risk of the purchaser, and Potter and Potter Auctions, Inc. will have no liability of any loss or damage to such items. Packing and shipping expenses shall be added to buyer's invoice and will reflect a charge for labor, materials, insurance, transportation, as well as actual shipper fees.