Thinking about selling your pinball machine? Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or simply ready to part with a beloved classic, knowing how to sell your pinball machine for the best price can save you time, avoid stress, and put more money in your pocket.
At House of Pinball, we help collectors and casual sellers alike get the most value from their machines. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to prepare your machine, evaluate its worth, avoid scams, and decide whether to sell privately or to a trusted dealer like us.
Why Sell a Pinball Machine?
There are plenty of valid reasons to sell:
- You’re upgrading to a newer or rarer model
- You need to free up space
- You want quick cash
- You’re no longer using it and want it in a good home
Whatever your reason, the right sale strategy can maximize your return and ensure the machine ends up in the hands of someone who appreciates it.
Step 1: Know What You’re Selling
Before you list your machine, gather all the essential information:
- Make & model (e.g., Stern Godzilla Premium, Bally The Addams Family)
- Production year
- Condition: cosmetic (cabinet/playfield), mechanical, and electronic
- Mods or upgrades (LEDs, toppers, updated code)
- Documentation: manuals, receipts, or certificates of authenticity
If you’re unsure about the model or market value, we at House of Pinball can help with a free valuation.
Step 2: Clean and Prepare the Machine
A clean, working pinball machine is far more attractive to buyers. Here’s how to prep it:
- Wipe down the cabinet and glass with a non-abrasive cleaner
- Clean and wax the playfield
- Replace broken bulbs or rubbers
- Fix simple issues (sticking flippers, ball troughs, etc.)
- Take high-resolution photos in good lighting, from multiple angles
First impressions matter—especially when buyers are searching online for a pinball machine for sale.
Step 3: Determine the Right Price
Pricing is key. Too high, and your listing will sit. Too low, and you’ll lose out.
Factors that impact pinball machine value:
- Title popularity (classic games like Medieval Madness or The Addams Family fetch top dollar)
- Condition
- Rarity or Limited Editions (Gold/LE/Collectors Editions)
- Gameplay appeal
- Current demand (modern Stern titles or nostalgia-driven machines may sell faster)
Use market benchmarks:
- eBay sold listings
- Pinside marketplace
- Facebook Groups
- Ask House of Pinball for a no-obligation appraisal
Step 4: Decide Where to Sell
You have two main options: sell it yourself or sell to a dealer like House of Pinball.
Selling it yourself (Private Sale)
Pros:
✅ Potential for higher price
✅ Control over the process
Cons:
❌ Time-consuming
❌ Dealing with tire-kickers
❌ Risk of scams or no-shows
❌ Need to arrange transport
Popular platforms:
- Facebook Marketplace or groups
- Craigslist
- eBay (watch for high fees!)
- Pinside (for seasoned collectors)
Selling to House of Pinball (Dealer)
Pros:
✅ Fast cash offer
✅ No listing or shipping hassle
✅ No-risk transaction
✅ We handle pickup/logistics
Cons:
⚠️ May be slightly below top-market private sale price—but often worth it for convenience and peace of mind
📦 Want a no-obligation quote? Contact House of Pinball for a fast evaluation and fair cash offer.