This 1950s fortune-teller machine slash napkin holder might’ve been the inspiration for the one in the classic Twilight Zone episode with William Shatner in a diner. Place a penny in the slot, pull the lever and get a piece of paper with an answer to your yes/no question (such as, “All my sources point to YES”) as well as (on the reverse side) a fortune such as, “The ace of diamonds means someone near is thinking of divorce. The two chief causes of divorce are matrimony and alimony. You only mumble a few words in church and you are married– and mumble a few in your sleep and you’re divorced. The only way to eliminate the divorce evil would be for folks to stay divorced.” 
When I bought this at a garage sale, it was locked. I actually paid about $50.00 to have a locksmith open it up and create a key and was pleased to find all the original paper fortunes inside.
I have a couple of these. It’s amazing how many of them are still around.
That’s great you found yours with the fortunes still inside.
I used to love anything that had a punch hole in it as I loved the sound that little clicker scissors looking thing made. I used to hang onto the fortunes and used them in the background of the lot of the art I was making in the ’80s.
By the way, none of this stuff ever came true.
This is so awesome! If I ever had a diner, I’d want these on the table.
Thanks, Nessa. Looks like you’re in a pretty cool diner in your photo.
Akitchionados share great taste in decor :)
http://www.alleewillis.com/awmok/kitschenette/2009/09/17/swami-fortune-teller/
The fortunes never came true for me either.
i love the suggested question “am i romantic?”…
oh wow, i’ve never seen something like this before! i’m so glad you got it re-keyed! that’s admirable commitment to kitsch! i definitely need one of these,diner or no diner…though, Nessa, yeah, maybe you should open one…you need to display your stuff!!!!
I’ve always loved these fortune teller machines. So cool. I also love Madame Zora (http://www.thewhatbox.com) and her fortunes/daily quotes. So inspiring and quaint.
Hi Grabby,
I tried clicking on the “thewhatbox” link a few times, but it takes me to a site called YourGirlz.com, and no sign of Madame Zora.
Best,
Doug
I love this!