What are Gumball Machines?
Gumball machines are coin-operated devices that mechanically dispense coated gum, hard candies and small encapsulated toys. These machines are generally located in high-traffic areas such as the entrances and exits of retail stores, waiting rooms, and shopping malls. Some gumball machines still dispense a few pieces of gum or hard candies for a US penny or dime, but most modern gumball machines operate on quarters or their equivalent. A few machines which feature temporary tattoos or other artwork may even charge a US dollar for their products.