Machine Description

Gottlieb's 'Circus' pinball machine, released in 1957, captured the vibrant energy and spectacle of the classic American circus during the golden age of electro-mechanical pinball. This beautifully themed machine emerged during a time when circuses were still a major form of entertainment across America, making it particularly resonant with players of the era.

The playfield design featured colorful circus imagery including clowns, acrobats, and big-top motifs, all rendered in the distinctive art style of the 1950s. The machine utilized Gottlieb's standard four-flipper configuration of the period, with the gameplay focused on hitting various circus-themed targets and bumpers. The score panels were decorated with circus marquee styling, adding to the authentic carnival atmosphere.

As one of Gottlieb's popular machines from the 1950s, 'Circus' represented the company's commitment to quality engineering and reliable gameplay mechanics. The machine featured the robust electro-mechanical components typical of the era, including mechanical score reels, chimes, and relay-based logic systems. While exact production numbers aren't well documented, it was manufactured during a period when Gottlieb was the dominant force in pinball manufacturing.

The machine's enduring appeal has made it a sought-after collector's piece, representing a significant piece of both pinball and American entertainment history. Its theme and execution exemplified the era's optimistic post-war culture and the public's continuing fascination with circus entertainment.