The Playfield - Tips to Getting the Most from the Data
What's your pinball machine worth? What do pinball machines cost? Pinball prices are soaring higher and higher. In 2022 the average price was up 13% but in 2023 it's down 2.5%. So you need to be a smart shopper (or seller) and know how to get the most from the Pinball Prices free price guide. Here are 5 simple guidelines to better understand what your pinball machince is worth:
(1) Don't just look at the average price!
The yearly average is just that, an average. It includes everything from non-working project machines to top of the line mint restorations. Take a minute and look at the sales detail section directly below the average price. The detail section gives you all the information available about the pinball. But remember...
(2) Prices can vary greatly
A lot of factors can influence the final sale price of a pinball machine - theme, condition, rarity, age and where you buy. Our free price guide tells you exactly where the sale was made - eBay, Pinside, or an online auction house. No one particular channel has higher or lower prices but they do often include fees for either the buyer (auction sites) or the seller (eBay). Buyer fees are included in the price listed here.
(3) Pinball Condition is Self-Reported
The condition of the pinball machine has a great deal to do with its true value and may be overstated by the seller. PinballPrices has no way to rate the actual condition of any machine sold, so the condition listed is what the seller reports.
(4) Use the Hyper-links for more detail
Hyper-links to the original listing are given for every sale. Click on those links to get more detail and pictures of the actual machine. Machine links from Pinside.com sales do not expire, however eBay links are only available for 90 days after the sale date.
(5) What we don't include
Any sale that includes "Free Shipping"
Any eBay sale marked as "Best Offer Accepted" (as no actual sale price is given)
Facebook Market or Craigslist sales (as no actual sale price is given)
