Photo credit: https://www.borninspace.com
Rob Berk, Guiness World Record holder for the largest pinball collection
If you’re starting out pinball collecting or have been an avid collector for years, you’ll know that nothing beats the thrill of a new game.
For many in the community, finally realizing that childhood dream of owning your very own game is a rite of passage, 50% nostalgia trip, 50% obsession, and 100% worth the wait. No matter whether it’s a vintage classic you’ve had your eye on for decades, or a modern marvel that makes the most of the latest tech for incredible game-play, pinball collecting has something for everyone.
What makes pinball the best hobby in the world? How do I get started with my own collection? What makes Pinball Collecting unique? All this and more is explored below.
What is Pinball Collecting?
In the simplest terms - Pinball is the hobby of buying, restoring, and PLAYING pinball machines - antique, vintage, broken (ha!), used, or modern.
The passion for collecting is what unites many of us in the pinball community. Some of us have one beloved machine (and dream of a larger collection) while others have large collections that fill rooms, garages, and even entire buildings!
However big the collection - there's always one thing we have in common: the love of the game.
For The Love of Playing Pinball
So, what is it about pinball collecting that gets players excited? Is it the flashing lights, the adrenaline rush of a multiball or maybe the desire to relive the memories of your childhood arcade?
Yes, there’s the nostalgia. That warm, fuzzy feeling of stepping back into the arcade or catching the glow of a machine in a darkened room. For most collectors - it's about something more.. Pinball machines, especially the high-end titles from brands like Jersey Jack, are serious feats of craftsmanship. We’re talking hundreds of individual components, intricate mechanical systems, and custom-coded rule sets that turn each game into a full-blown experience.
Some of us grew up dreaming of owning the perfect machine, drawn in by the artwork, the sounds, the lights. But as collectors, what keeps us hooked is how much the machines (and the subculture that comes with it) have grown. Today’s pins include elements like RGB LED lighting across the playfield, large displays with full-screen animations, interactive toys, precision-engineered flippers, and custom soundtracks. It’s a whole different level of immersion.
Let’s be real, there’s nothing quite like the physical, tactile experience of playing a well-built pinball machine. No digital game or app can replicate the feel of a perfect shot up a tight ramp, or the rush of keeping multiball alive under pressure. And we all started here: the casual player, looking forward to an evening spent on the machines surrounded by friend, family… and maybe a bit of friendly competition.
That’s how it all begins! Collectors usually hunt for the games they enjoy playing the most, including modern twists on new games and those old-school classics that started it all. And before you know it, you’re deep in the community, talking upgrades, comparing line-ups, and keeping close tabs on the latest pinball drops lighting up the group chat.
Why Do People Collect Pinball Machines?
Pinball collecting is about a lot more than games. It’s about the artistry, the design, the detailing, and the mechanical rhythm that keeps you coming back. Collecting becomes an experience that’s so much bigger than any one machine, moment, or memory.
Collecting a pinball machine is collecting a piece of pop culture. Their creation is an art form (the skill that goes into crafting these machines and the patience to restore them needs to be acknowledged). This is art you can play, and here at Jersey Jack - we take the art form very seriously.
All pinball games have a story before they end up in someone’s collection. And that story is half of their beauty.
Some collectors target specific machines (like the super rare 1982 Varcon that’s had a place in our hearts ever since we saw it on YouTube–video below!), while others have a broader goal: find a fun game they know they’ll get tons of enjoyment from based on gameplay videos.
Some collectors might look for the machines that made technological milestones in pinball, like the first multi-ball, early drop targets, or the first machines that made use of electronic features.
But are pinball machines a good investment? In some cases, yes, but not always in the financial sense. Pinball is first and foremost an investment in fun. While certain titles like Pirates of the Caribbean have held (or even increased) in value, the market is unpredictable. That said, collectors often find the real payoff in the hunt and the joy of owning the game.
No matter if you're buying your first pinball game or your 100th, a sleek modern table or a battered vintage that needs repair, each new addition is as exciting as the first.
What do luxury pinball machines look like today? Check out our latest game release: Harry Potter!
Meet the Community of Pinball Collectors
Guns ‘n’ Roses Limited Edition Machine by Jersey Jack Pinball
When you start a pin collection, you’re never really doing it alone. One of the best parts of being a pinball enthusiast is the vibrant, welcoming community you join. Collectors come from all walks of life — celebrities showing off rare machines in their game rooms, families bonding over friendly competitions, and bachelors filling their garages with classics.
One player, Juana Summers, described her own journey on NPR as “falling in love with pinball” not just for the game, but because it gave her a way to make friends and feel connected in a new city. From her first shaky league games to organizing road trips and even sneaking away on her wedding day to play a few rounds, she found pinball to be more than a hobby — it was a way to find her people. Her story is just one of many in this tight-knit, joyful culture.
Collectors from around the world connect online, sharing stories, comparing tables, and hunting for rare finds. Forums like Pinside are full of helpful advice, spirited debates, and plenty of “look at this beauty I just picked up!” posts. Facebook groups are always buzzing, and conventions like Pinball Expo or the Texas Pinball Festival bring collectors together in person to play, socialize — and yes, show off their collections.
The truth that all pinball players will tell you is that playing, maintaining, and restoring pins is a collaborative experience, and is so much more than just a love of a particular game. Once you’ve got a few machines, people start showing up for game night. At first, it’s “just a few buddies” in the man cave. Before you know it, it’s tournaments in the garage, packed with locals and fellow collectors.
Photo credit: Carly Romeo
Juana Summers playing pinball on her wedding day, with her husband and stepkids pictured in the background.
The Pinball Machines Collectors Are Chasing Right Now
There are always a few machines that get everyone talking... But let's just say that they're not always easy to find.
Cult classics, old-school faves, new games making the most of modern technology, pre electro-mechanical games... If you're looking to start collecting pinball machines, it can be a little overwhelming where to begin.
Here's a starting list of the kind of pinball games that collectors are looking for right now, so you can make your own mind up.
Antique Pinball Machines
Antique machines, from those pre-1970 glory days, are valued for their historical significance and their fine craftsmanship.
Valuable antique pinball machines, like Ballyhoo: widely recognized as the first game - are rare and often have hard to replace features like original wood rails, or early bat-style flippers. Depending on the number produced - they can be in high demand. If you're looking to start collecting antique games - you need to understand what you could be getting into.
Restoration can be a tricky business. Hard to find parts and matching old materials is a recipe for frustration. Projects require skilled labor - which sometimes means shelling out more than you bargained for. Storage can be tedious too - sunlight and temperature changes have an increased effect on older machines.
But the drama of owning your very own antique pinball machine adds to the allure for some collectors. Unlike new pinball machines, an oldie needs a special level of TLC, but that hard work means you can say you're the proud owner of a slice of arcade history. And for many, that’s enough.
Rare Icons
Kingpin
Titles like RAZA, Big Bang Bar, or even Kingpin (Big Bang Bar’s long-lost brother? (Take a look at the video above!) are notoriously hard to track down, often top every collector’s dream list. These rare finds are rarely sold, so if you've got the opportunity to add one to your collection, have a serious think. It could be your last chance.
Pirates of the Caribbean Collector’s Edition Pinball Machine
One machine that earns buzz every time it appears? The Pirates of the Caribbean Collector’s Edition, limited to just 200 units worldwide. It’s frequently dubbed a “holy grail” in collections, so if you ever see one listed around $28K–$30K, consider yourself lucky.
Rare pins come with rare price tags, so prepare to invest big to own a piece of arcade history. Keep an eye on listings across eBay, Pinside, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist, and don’t underestimate the thrill of discovering a hidden gem in live auctions or estate sales.
Talk to any pinhead - collecting is often about the hunt itself. Remember to enjoy the process.
New Pinball Machines
For those looking to experience the newest and coolest in the hobby - brands like Jersey Jack Pinball are a force to be reckoned with. Digital screens, high-fidelity audio, and awe-inspiring RGB-LED lightshows are just a few staples of the modern pinball machine.
New machines from pop culture behemoths (like Harry Potter, Avatar, and music legends like Elton John and Guns N’ Roses) are always exciting for their rich theming, recognisable worlds, and the way they draw players in from the very first ball.
But what about the investment value of newer machines? Well, the evidence suggests that new pins will hold their value, or even go up over time. Many of today’s high-end pins are released in limited number or made-to-order with timed production runs. Machines like the limited and collector’s edition releases from Jersey Jack are already making waves in the community for their depth, craftsmanship, and long-term appeal.
If you're curious what that looks like in action, the new Harry Potter Collector’s Edition from Jersey Jack is it. Packed with intricate features, special artwork, and immersive gameplay - it has become one of the most sought-after games in recent years. Check out the game (and grab one while they're still available) right here.
How To Start Your Pinball Collection
Ready to get started?! The world of pinball is vast, vibrant, and occasionally overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you. Here’s what actually makes a pinball machine desirable, collectible, and downright lovable, plus our top tips on how to start your own collection with confidence.
Here's our top tips on how to buy a pinball machine and start your collection.
1. Do Your Research
Don't let yourself get blinded by the flashing lights! Take the time to understand what makes certain machines collectible or desirable.
Think about what you want from a machine, and what's motivating you to start collecting pinball machines in the first place. Think about the space you're planning to use to display your pins, how comfortable you are with maintenance needs, and your level of interest in restoration vs. ready-to-play machines.
Start with fun. Buy the machines you can’t stop playing. Everything else is preference. Once you’ve got a short list, dive into the details: vintage charm vs. modern innovation, condition and parts availability, maintenance needs, mod potential, price, and space. That way, you’re choosing a game you love and one that fits your setup for the long haul.
2. Interact With The Community
If you're new to the world of the pins, then the community is your most valuable asset.
Cover the basics. Join Reddit's /r/pinball & /r/virtualpinball and the Facebook Groups “Pinball Enthusiasts” and, if you're brave - “ Pinball Degenerates “. When you're ready to stop lurking - sign-up on Pinball message boards like Pinside.com & Pinballinfo.com and start interacting. Introduce yourself, tell them what you're into, and don't hesitate to ask questions.
These community members can offer perspective and insight, especially when you’re just starting out. Whether you’re into the obscure or the iconic (or both!), there’s a place for you in the pinball world. From mechanical engineers to millionaires, collectors unite around their shared love for the perennial game of pinball.
3. Set a Budget
When you've got a new hobby and some money to spend, it can be tempting to go all in. But before you get started, it's always worth taking a moment to understand what you’re actually getting into (especially when it comes to cost).
Pinball machines can vary wildly in price depending on their age, condition, and collectability. Here’s a quick pinball machine price guide to let you know what you might expect based on prices currently found on etsy, ebay, and discussed within Pinball Reddit channels. We encourage purchasing used/new machines from FB Marketplace, Pinside Marketplace, Craigslist, Official Distributors, and of course direct.
- Starter pins (project machines or older EMs): $1,000–$2,500
- Solid-state classics (1980s–90s Bally/Williams): $3,000–$6,500
- Modern icons (Like a Jersey Jack) : $10,000–$15,000
- Rare/LE models or fully restored vintage pins: $16,000–$20,000+
Start Your Collection With A Jersey Jack Work Of Art
The Avatar Collector’s Edition pinball machine, by Jersey Jack Pinball
If you’re starting your pinball collection and want something that looks amazing and plays beautifully, well then you can't go wrong with a Jersey Jack Pinball machine.
Buying a new machine from a high-end maker like JJP doesn’t just mean flashing lights and immersive storytelling. It means less maintenance and more time spent playing. That’s because modern tables are hand-assembled works of art, designed for performance and durability.
Whether you're getting lost in the gameplay of Harry Potter or soaking up the spectacle of Elton John, a new machine offers cutting-edge features and the kind of peace of mind that comes with contemporary high-end craftsmanship.
Founded by pinball visionary Jack Guarnieri, Jersey Jack Pinball was born out of a love for quality machines and a desire to bring innovation back into pinball. The goal has always been to build the kind of machines collectors dream about owning, and that true pins players can’t stop playing.
Ready to start your collection? Browse Jersey Jack’s latest machines right here and find the one that belongs in your lineup.
Jersey Jack Pinball's Collector’s Edition Pinball Machines
The JJP Harry Potter Spinning Staircase Toy
The crème de la crème of a JJP machine is the Collector's Edition.
With gloriously rich detailing, custom artwork that practically leaps off the cabinet, and signature touches from musical legends like Guns N’ Roses and Elton John, these machines represent the modern golden age of pinball. Each Limited and Collector’s Edition release is thoughtfully designed to turn heads and anchor collections.
Many Collector’s Edition machines from JJP come fully loaded with premium upgrades, including:
- A fully-featured topper
- Enhanced lighting on the cabinet’s base and rear
- Exclusive custom artwork
- Designer or celebrity signature cards
They're crafted to deliver an immersive experience, retain value over time, and often become the centerpiece of a game room or private collection.
Let's take a look at some of the most famous JJP pins that you could call your own.
1. Harry Potter Pinball Machine
Collector's Edition Harry Potter pinball machine
With mechs and sculpts that bring to the forefront key elements from the franchise (like the Death Eater, the Spinning Staircase, Whomping Willow, and a the Sorting Hat, of course), the Harry Potter Collector's Edition is the perfect first pinball machine for any would-be witch or wizard.
2. Avatar Pinball Machine: Battle for Pandora
Jersey Jack Avatar Pinball Machine with Original Film Clips & Soundtrack
An edge-of-your-seat journey into the deep wilds of Pandora, the Avatar Collector's Edition Pinball Machine is a one-of-a-kind blend of cinematic storytelling and fully immersive gameplay.
Packed with rich visual effects, layered sound design, and intricate mechanical features, it’s designed to transport players straight into James Cameron’s world. Every flip, ramp, and multi-ball pulsing with the atmosphere of the movie.
3. Elton John Pinball Machine: Rocket Man
Elton John beside the Jersey Jack Elton John Pinball Machine
With Rocking Crocodile, Spinning Tiny Dancer, and animatronic Elton the Elton John Pinball Machine for every die-hard fan. Super immersive, with lights flashing, you'll lose track of the time as the balls hit targets and navigate ramps all to the sound of Elton John’s timeless hits.
Every play feels like stepping into a private concert: one that’s joyful and electrifying. It’s a full-spectrum tribute to Elton’s legendary career, engineered with signature Jersey Jack detail for players and collectors alike. And yes… even Pinball Wizards will be impressed.
4. The Godfather Themed Pinball Machine
The Godfather Limited Edition Pinball Machines
With the power of the Corleone family at your fingertips, The Godfather 50th Anniversary Pinball Machine transports players into the heart of cinematic crime lore.
It's so immersive that every shot and spinner feels like a scene from the film. It’s a complete experience that marries storytelling and gameplay, crafted by Jersey Jack to captivate both fans and collectors alike.
5. Toy Story 4 Themed Pinball Machine
Toy Story 4 Pinball Machine by JJP
Bright, bold, and full of Pixar magic, the Toy Story 4 Pinball Machine is a total crowd-pleaser.
With smooth flipper action and clever ramp shots, this a fast-paced game that feels great under your fingers. Expect a spinning wheel, pop-up ramps, carnival chaos, and all your favourite characters.
And to top it off, it's wrapped up in one seriously fun machine that’s perfect for collectors who love a bit of light-hearted flair.
6. Guns N' Roses Pinball Machine
A Guns ‘n’ Roses pinball machine(Axl Rose)
Channel the raw energy of a Guns N’ Roses concert with epic visuals, roaring soundtracks, and flashing lights that pulse to Sweet Child O’ Mine, Welcome to the Jungle, Paradise City, and more.
These pins are built for fans and collectors who want a full-on rock show in their home game room or arcade. Every multi-ball burst feels like a guitar solo, and every ramp shot rocks almost as hard as a jacked up amp at full volume.
Final Play: Is Pinball Collecting Right for You?
Still thinking, 'Should I buy a pinball machine?'
You're still here - so you've probably already answered your own question.
Between the chase, the community, the collectibility, and (of course) the gameplay and next-to-none memories, pinball collecting is the best hobby on the planet. And if you're ready to go all-in? Pinball trade shows are the place to be. Events like Pinball Expo, Texas Pinball Festival, and gatherings around the globe bring collectors together to test out new machines, swap stories, score rare finds, and meet the makers behind the magic. Think of it like Comic-Con for chrome, lights, and bumpers.
Whether you're in it for the art, the gameplay, or the chance to own a piece of something iconic, collecting pinball machines is one of those rare hobbies that feels both personal and social. And if you're looking for somewhere to start? We’re here with open arms and pure pinball appreciation whenever you’re ready!