Machine Description

Derby Day, released by D. Gottlieb & Co. in the early 1950s, represents a classic example of horse racing themed pinball machines that were popular during the post-war arcade boom. The machine captured the excitement of horse racing at a time when the sport was one of America's most popular spectator pastimes.

The machine featured beautiful horse racing artwork on its backglass and playfield, depicting thoroughbred horses thundering down the final stretch. As an electro-mechanical pinball machine, it utilized the technology of its era with mechanical scoring reels, relay-based logic, and the distinctive sounds of chimes and bells that characterized games of this period. The playfield likely included various racing-themed targets and scoring features that allowed players to advance their 'horse' in the simulated race.

Derby Day was produced during what many consider the golden age of electro-mechanical pinball, when Gottlieb was establishing itself as one of the premier manufacturers in the industry. The theme resonated well with the public, as horse racing remained a popular betting sport throughout the 1950s. While exact production numbers are not well documented, the machine helped establish the racing theme as a recurring concept in pinball design that would be revisited by various manufacturers in the decades to follow.

The machine's design and artwork exemplified the artistic style of the early 1950s, with bold colors and dynamic illustrations that captured the energy and excitement of horse racing. As with many machines of this era, surviving examples of Derby Day are now highly sought after by collectors, particularly those interested in the early evolution of pinball themes and mechanics.