We have a wide range of books, covering topics from pinball history, artwork and maintenance, to slot machines, jukeboxes, trade stimulators and more. Books related to the hobby make a great gift for that special collector or anyone interested in exploring the fascinating history of the arcade machines that have thrilled us all.

For Amusement Only has a large selection of pinball related books in stock.

Browse through the titles listed here on the web and see what interests you. Can't find the coin-op book you're looking for? Let us know and perhaps we can help.

From its inception in the 1930s, pinball has challenged and inspired millions of enthusiastic players and become the passion of countless collectors around the world. Illustrated with over 600 color photos, this exciting book chronicles the development of pinball machines from the 1930s through the late 1960s, featuring exclusive rare interviews with some of the greatest designers in the industry. Hundreds of pinball machines from Gottlieb, Bally, Genco, Williams, United, and other manufacturers are showcased -- including many never before published. The extensive text provides descriptions of the games, their special features, historical significance, release dates, and names of designers and artists. Pinball enthusiasts will also love the many stories featuring the thrill of the "Silver Ball." This is a wonderful reference tool and a tribute to all those who were part of the pinball machine's fascinating history.
$50.00
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The Pinball Compendium
1930s-1960s
The third and final volume in the Compendium series by Michael Shaloub. Eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts who prefer the games made since the early 1980s, this 2nd edition includes over 900 color photos and covers the most recent period in pinball history, from 1982 through 2005. Each chapter is devoted to a specific year and features descriptions, release dates, and historical background on the games released that year from manufacturers Gottlieb, Williams, Bally, Data East, Stern, Sega and others. Current values are listed for each machine shown in the book. Interspersed with the games are stories and interviews with many of the legendary designers and artists who created them. Readers will gain fascinating insight into the planning that went into the games, how the designers and artists got their start in the industry, behind-the-scenes tales of life in the pinball world, and more.
$60.00
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The Pinball Compendium
1982 to Present
This comprehensive new book showcases the most desirable Electro-Mechanical pinball games ever built.Over 1000 color photographs arranged in decades from the 1930s to the 1970s showcase some of the most popular and groundbreaking games made, many never shown in books before. Also included are many black and white photos loaned to the author, Michael Shalhoub, by Mr Alvin Gottlieb. Interspersed with the game descriptions are short articles showcasing people in the business and in the hobby. This book is a very nice addition to the author's previous three Compendiums, and rounds out his work and dedication in the field. $70.00
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Pinball Compendium
Electro-Mechanical Era
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Bally Bingo Pinball Machines

 The pinball book you have been waiting for is finally here! From those fabulous '50s & '60s, Jeffrey Lawton, Bingo Pinball Historian, presents 290+ photos, including original promotional brochures and advertisements, that showcase a fantastic collection of Bally® Bingo pinball machines, along with a history of the evolution and excitement that surrounds this compelling hobby. All who grew up with street cars, slot machines, pinball machines, pool halls, and diners will enjoy this book tremendously! $40.00
This spiral-bound book provides basic information on Bally EM games. Sections cover information on basic circuits and symbols, wire color codes, information on score motor units, relays, step up units, scoring units, bumpers and flippers. Also includes a section on trouble-shooting hints. $20.00
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Introduction to Bally Flipper Games
Coin operated machines were first introduced into America in the late 1880's. These machines were operated in saloons, Mom and Pop stores, drugstores, general stores and soda fountains, often illuminated by kerosene lamps and gas lights. The picture rich book depicts some very rare machines and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of everything from one reelers and horse race games to roulette and skill games. Organized into fifteen sections, this book covers manufacturing, age, comments and rarity information on hundreds of machines. $40.00
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For Amusement Only

Jukeboxes

Jukeboxes

 Jukeboxes and their records, symbols of the lively days of petticoats and rock'n roll, are making a comeback. Collectors world-wide are searching them out wherever they can find them. The American chrome giants made by Seeburg, Wurlitzer, Rock-Ola, and AMI enjoy the greatest popularity in museums and collections, for they were the witnesses of the "Golden Fifties".

In Jukeboxes, these musical machines come to life again. Here is the history of the development, the technology, and the stars. Here also is information on the manufacturers, a photo chronicle of their evolution, and advice on collecting, maintaining and restoring jukeboxes from the `50s and `60s. An illustrated index of model numbers by manufacturer will be especially helpful to the collector. $35.00