Beechnut vendors were a common sight in the 1950s and '60s often sited around newsagents. You received a packet of gum for an old penny and a free one on every 4th penny used. The position of an arrow on the handle would indicate when the next free packet was due.

The elaborate Arabic styling of this fine and very early vendor promotes Cadbury's chocolate as an exotic luxury while targeting the new cycling craze demand for portable energy snacks, "The Favourite Beverage for Cyclists and Tourists - Gives Strength & Vigour to the System".

The elaborate construction and "police box" style, complete with illuminating top-box, suggest a late '20s - early '30s date. The badge tells us it was made by the Caledonian Automatic Scale Co. Ltd. of Edinburgh, but unfortunately nothing is presently known about that company.

Three column, floor-standing chrome-plated steel-cased cigarette vending machine.

Two column floor-standing cigarette vending machine with clock, advertising Whim's Cigarettes.

Three column floor-standing steel-cased cigarette vending machine (this example missing central clock).