ELECTRICITY IS LIFE SHOCK MACHINE.

ELECTRICITY IS LIFE SHOCK MACHINE. A metal tag within the case indicates that this machine was manufactured at the turn of the century by Detroit Medical Battery Co. At this point in time, so many cures were being offered for so many ailments and the belief that electric shock could resolve issues such as nervous stomach, mental disorders, blood ailments, etc. A penny deposited in the machine and firmly grasping both brass knobs, one would slowly rotate the right hand knob upwards. A dial indicated the strength of the shock one would receive. Oftentimes, little cure was ever administered, but more discomfort was the reality of the situation. Machine is constructed of cast iron with a horseshoe dial indicating strength and lightning bolts embossed on the front. Later on, it would become a challenge for children and adults to see how high they could register on the “Shock-o-meter”. These shock machines of the time period were ineffective and would possibly be compared to quack medicine. Machine appears to be in original condition, which is fair to good. SIZE: 18″ h x 11″ w x 11″ d. CONDITION: Repaired hairline crack to marquee and aged repair to right handle. Porcelain instruction panel a possible replacement. 1-12264 (4,000-4,500)

Auction: Advertising, Toy & Doll - Fall 2012

Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

Image	Lot	Price	Description
	3248	$0.00	ELECTRICITY IS LIFE SHOCK MACHINE. A metal tag within the case indicates that this machine was manufactured at the turn of the century by Detroit Medical Battery Co. At this point in time, so many cures were being offered for so many ailments and the belief that electric shock could resolve issues such as nervous stomach, mental disorders, blood ailments, etc. A penny deposited in the machine and firmly grasping both brass knobs, one would slowly rotate the right hand knob upwards. A dial indicated the strength of the shock one would receive. Oftentimes, little cure was ever administered, but more discomfort was the reality of the situation. Machine is constructed of cast iron with a horseshoe dial indicating strength and lightning bolts embossed on the front. Later on, it would become a challenge for children and adults to see how high they could register on the “Shock-o-meter”. These shock machines of the time period were ineffective and would possibly be compared to quack medicine. Machine appears to be in original condition, which is fair to good. SIZE: 18″ h x 11″ w x 11″ d. CONDITION: Repaired hairline crack to marquee and aged repair to right handle. Porcelain instruction panel a possible replacement. 1-12264 (4,000-4,500) Auction: Advertising, Toy & Doll - Fall 2012 Please Note: All prices include the hammer price plus the buyer’s premium, which is paid by the buyer as part of the purchase price. The prices noted here after the auction are considered unofficial and do not become official until after the 46th day.

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