Cleopatra 2 Slot Machine For Sale
You love the feel of pulling a real lever, the clink of coins in the tray, and having a classic slot right in your game room. But where do you even start looking for a genuine, working Cleopatra 2 machine without getting ripped off? Finding a legitimate seller is the biggest hurdle for most collectors.
Where to Buy a Genuine IGT Cleopatra II Machine
Your best bet is specialized dealers and marketplaces that focus on used casino equipment. Avoid general auction sites where authenticity is questionable. Reputable dealers like Casino Equipment Sales, Slot Machine Solutions, or The Casino Warehouse often have IGT machines in their inventory. They typically refurbish units, replacing worn parts and ensuring the game logic works perfectly before sale. Expect to pay a premium here, but you get a verified machine with some warranty. For a more direct purchase, check listings on platforms like eBay, but scrutinize the seller's history. A seller with hundreds of positive reviews specifically for slot machines is far more trustworthy than someone selling their first item.
Understanding the Different Models and Configurations
Not all "Cleopatra 2" machines are the same. The original IGT Cleopatra II was a video slot, but you'll also find multi-game cabinets that include it in their library. The dedicated cabinet is what most purists want. You might also encounter machines configured for different currencies or ticket-in/ticket-out (TITO) systems versus older coin-operated models. A TITO machine will have a bill validator and ticket printer, which is more convenient for home use. Make sure you know exactly what you're bidding on—ask for the model number, a photo of the inside cabinet sticker, and a video of it booting up and playing through a few spins.
What's a Fair Price for a Used Cleopatra II Slot?
Prices vary wildly based on condition, location, and configuration. A fully refurbished, pristine Cleopatra II in a dedicated cabinet from a professional dealer can range from $3,500 to $6,000. A used but functional machine from a private seller might be found between $1,800 and $3,000. Multi-game machines that include Cleopatra II among 50+ other games often sell for $2,500 to $4,500. Remember, shipping a heavy, fragile slot machine costs several hundred dollars, so factor that into your total budget. A price that seems too good to be true usually is—it might be non-working, missing critical parts, or a cheap imitation.
Legal Considerations Before You Buy
This is crucial. In most of the United States, owning a slot machine for personal use in your private home is legal if the machine is a certain age. The federal standard is that the machine must be at least 25 years old. However, state laws override this. Some states, like Nevada and New Jersey, have no age restriction for home ownership. Others, like California, require the machine to be 25+ years old. And some states, including Hawaii, Utah, and Connecticut, prohibit private ownership entirely. The IGT Cleopatra II was released in 2004, so it does not meet the 25-year federal antique threshold. Your ability to legally own one depends entirely on your state's specific laws. Always check your state's statutes on "anticipatory devices" or "gambling devices" before purchasing.
What to Check When Inspecting a Machine
Never buy sight-unseen if you can avoid it. If inspecting in person, check the monitor for burn-in, dimness, or discoloration. Replacing a CRT or large LCD is expensive. Listen to the sound—are the iconic music and effects clear? Test every button and the lever (if equipped) for responsiveness. Open the main door and look inside. Is it clean, or full of dust and debris? Are there signs of water damage or rodent nests? Check the power supply and main board for cracked solder or burnt components. Ask the seller to demonstrate a full power cycle and play a few bonus rounds to prove all features work.
Options for Home Use and Maintenance
Once you get it home, you'll need to configure it for free play. Most machines sold to the public are set to “fun mode” or have their coin comparators disconnected. You can usually adjust the coin-in settings through the machine's diagnostic menu to allow unlimited credits. For maintenance, keep the machine in a climate-controlled space. Dust it regularly, especially the fans and vents. The most common failures are power supplies and bill validators. Finding a local technician who works on IGT machines is a smart move. Join online forums and communities for slot machine collectors; they are invaluable resources for troubleshooting and finding parts.
FAQ
Is it legal to buy a Cleopatra 2 slot machine for my house?
It depends entirely on your state's laws. The Cleopatra II is not yet 25 years old, so the federal "antique" exemption doesn't apply. States like Nevada and New Jersey allow ownership regardless of age. Many others only allow machines over 25 or 30 years old. A few states ban private ownership completely. You must research your specific state and county laws before buying.
How much does a real Cleopatra II slot machine cost?
From a professional dealer, a refurbished unit typically costs between $3,500 and $6,000. From a private seller, expect to pay $1,800 to $3,000 for a working machine. The price depends on condition, whether it's a dedicated cabinet or multi-game, and if it includes a warranty. Always budget an extra $300-$600 for professional shipping and setup.
Can I still win real money on a home slot machine?
No. Machines sold for the collector's market are modified for private, non-commercial use. They are either set to "fun mode" with unlimited credits or have their coin mechanisms disabled. Operating a slot machine for real-money gambling outside of a licensed casino is illegal in every U.S. state.
What's the difference between a video slot and a mechanical reel slot?
The Cleopatra II is a video slot. This means the reels are displayed on a video screen, and the outcomes are determined by a random number generator (RNG) in the computer. Mechanical reel slots have physical, spinning reels driven by motors. Video slots like Cleopatra II allow for more complex bonus features, animated graphics, and a wider variety of game themes.
Where can I find parts or get a Cleopatra 2 machine repaired?
Specialized companies like Slot Techs, Slot Machine Parts, and The Game Room Guys sell parts and offer repair services. The best resource is often online collector forums, where members trade parts and recommend technicians. For major issues like motherboard failure, you may need to send the main board to a specialist for repair.