Rainbow

The 1956 Gottlieb 'Rainbow' pinball machine emerged during the golden age of electro-mechanical pinball, representing a significant period in arcade gaming history when Gottlieb was cementing its reputation as one of the industry's premier manufacturers. This machine came at a time when pinball was recovering from various legal challenges and bans in major cities, helping to establish the game as legitimate entertainment.

The Rainbow was released during a period when Gottlieb was known for creating some of the most reliable and well-designed pinball machines in the industry. As an electro-mechanical machine, it featured the classic components of the era: mechanical score reels, relay-based logic systems, and the distinctive sounds of chimes and bells that would become nostalgically associated with vintage pinball. The theme capitalized on the universal appeal of rainbows, likely featuring vibrant artwork and playfield designs that would have stood out in any arcade setting.

During this era, Gottlieb machines were known for their superior engineering and build quality, which helped them survive decades of play. The Rainbow would have featured the company's signature gameplay elements, including pop bumpers, kick-out holes, and various scoring opportunities that rewarded skilled play. While specific production numbers aren't confirmed, machines from this period typically saw production runs of several thousand units, with many surviving examples still sought after by collectors today.