The Irvine Kaye Steeplechase was manufactured in the mid to late 1960’s. This counter-top “Trade Stimulator” was designed to allow the players to play a nickel and could test their skill or even bet each other for drinks.
Trade stimulators were typically countertop machines widely used to encourage patrons to indulge in a game of chance. They became popular in American saloons during the 1880s, their use spreading to cigar, confectionery and general stores. During periods when gambling was prohibited or in states where gambling was illegal, these machines could be used with little fear of prosecution.
The copy on the flyer reads:
“Bring Back the Good Old Days With Steeplechase
Packs a tremendous amount of appeal in a small space assuring you of substantial profits from a very small cash outlay.
Patrons will thrill to the action of the steeplechase and if ever there were a drink stimulator this is it. Three balls for a nickel. Attracts plenty of loose change and just watch those nickels pile up.
Steeplechase is no flash in the pan. It is location tested and proven.
Specifications: All Mechanical Trouble-Free.”
In November of 1967 Howard Kaye did an interview with Billboard magazine in an article titled “Revival of Counter Games Sparks Manufacturer Race”. Howard expected to be manufacturing a whole series of counter games. “These will not be take-offs of our Drinker Tinker, they will be completely different units.” This resurgence of popularity of classic countertop trade stimulators brought us the “Steeplechase”.
Update: The cabinet of the Steeplechase appears to be hardwood. We’ve found pictures of one that appears to be stripped and stained. The plywood cabinets of the Drinker-Tinker have a plastic molding finishing the edge but these cabinets are routed with a groove. A few have sold recently on eBay and online auctions for $350 (+ ~20% buyers premiums).
- Oct 2017 – liveauctioneers.com
- May 2018 – morphyauctions.com
