If you think vending machines are only stocked with chips, candy, and soda, and their healthier alter-egos, think again.
Although the concept of a vending machine can be traced back to first-century Roman Egypt, the very first modern coin operated vending machines were introduced in London way back in the early 1800s (they dispensed postcards). However, when Percival Everitt invented his version of a vending machine in 1883 they really took off.
And while we might associate vending machines with things like sandwiches, chips, candy, and soda, some people decided ‘Hey, why stop there?’ Today, you can find a vending machine for almost anything, Some of them are cool, some are weird and some are downright shocking! Here, we’ve listed some incredible vending machines from across the globe.
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Gold to Go Vending Machine
Where to find it: Dubai
It’s called the Gold to Go machine, and it’s the first-ever gold vending machine, found in Dubai Mall, UAE.
This machine is guarded by armored guards all day long, and rightfully so. This glittering ATM spits out 24-karat gold in 320 different forms: gold bars, coins, and even jewelry.
Crab Vending Machine
Where to find it: China
Why wait in line at the grocery store when you can buy your crab from a subway station vending machine?
It’s true. Live hairy crabs are displayed in a vending machine at a main subway station in Nanjing, Jiangsu province. The machine, which is restocked daily, sells crabs for around 20 RMB ($3.27), along with the appropriate condiments (crab vinegar and two bags of ginger tea).
