One slight correction: "Put Another Nickel In" is by Dave Bowers and was
written before the "Encyclopedia" that he wrote.  Both books are good
starting points for any beginner wanting more knowledge of coin operated
pianos.

Since the original writing of both books, more instruments have
surfaced and knowledge has increased.  Both books have small errors
and do not have every known  type of coin piano listed.  The "Treasures
of Mechanical Music" by Reblitz and Bowers is an excellent book for
restorers but is has not been reprinted for several reasons.  One of
the reasons is that Reblitz would like to make some corrections to that
book.

Anytime a book or article is written someone comes up with an unknown
piano or an exception to what was written.  Link Piano Co. was always
making changes (improvements) to the pianos they made for example.
Ampico mechanisms went through several modifications over the years.

The books most easily obtained today for the beginner:

  "Encyclopedia of Automated Musical Instruments', by Q. David Bowers
  "Rebuilding the Player Piano", by Art Reblitz
  "Piano Tuning and Repair", 2nd. edition, by Art Reblitz

These three books should start any beginner in the right direction.
They are the closest books in print to being historically accurate
and restoring pianos they way they were intended to sound when new.

Don Teach, Shreveport Music Co
1610 E. Bert Kouns, Shreveport,  LA  71105
dat-smc@juno.com