Machine Description

Rawhide, released by Stern in 1977, represents one of the last electro-mechanical pinball machines produced during the pivotal transition period to solid-state electronics. This western-themed machine captured the enduring popularity of TV westerns and cowboy culture that dominated American entertainment throughout the 1960s and 70s.

The machine's design featured classic western iconography including cowboys, cattle, and frontier landscapes. As one of Stern's notable releases during this period, Rawhide demonstrated the company's commitment to quality electro-mechanical engineering while the industry was on the cusp of the solid-state revolution. The gameplay incorporated traditional EM features like kick-out holes, drop targets, and spinning targets that were characteristic of the era.

Interestingly, 1977 saw two different pinball machines named 'Rawhide' released by different manufacturers - Stern and Chicago Coin - highlighting the competitive nature of the pinball industry during this period. Stern's version is particularly significant as it represents one of their final EM machines before the company fully embraced solid-state technology. This makes it an important historical artifact marking the end of the electro-mechanical era in pinball history.