These machines accept quarters (only) in exchange for merchandise encased in a plastic bubble delivered through a small slot at the bottom. They have remained simple mechanical devices, so far escaping the otherwise rampent modernization. The plastic bubble alone, endlessly useful in its simplicity, may be worth the full quarter with anything else being bonus. Most have a placard with goods to tempt you taped onto it, but what you get in the bubble is usualy a third rate copy. Favorite vending machine treat? Translucent plastic rings, best way to win a girl over.