Autobridge Playing Board Value Guide

Vintage Autobridge Wood Frame Playing Board and Bridge Game and Sheets | eBay — Autobridge Playing Board

Estimated Value

$20 – $30

Period: 1930s
Origin: USA
Materials: Wood, metal, paper, cardboard
Category: Autobridge

The Autobridge Playing Board is a landmark 1930s innovation that allowed bridge enthusiasts to practice solo using a mechanical interface. Its unique sliding-tab design acted as a silent partner, making it a highly specific piece of gaming history for collectors of mid-century Americana and card game memorabilia.

What Is Autobridge Playing Board Worth?

The typical price range for Autobridge Playing Board is $20 - $30 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

Completeness of the set, specifically the presence of the original instructional booklets and pre-arranged deal sheets.
The material of the board, with early wood and metal versions often being more desirable than later plastic iterations.
Mechanical functionality of the sliding pieces, ensuring they move smoothly without sticking or damage.
Overall aesthetic condition of the board surface and the clarity of the printed text and numbers.

How to Identify Autobridge Playing Board?

Look for the original 1930s metal or wood frame construction with the 'Autobridge' branding clearly visible.
Verify the presence of the integrated sliding metal or plastic tabs used to reveal bids and card plays.
Check for the inclusion of the original paper deal sheets which were inserted into the board to provide specific game scenarios.
Confirm the 'Made in USA' origin marking typically found on the base or the instructional materials.

History of Autobridge Playing Board

Autobridge was first introduced in the 1930s as an innovative way for bridge enthusiasts to play and practice the game solo. It provided pre-arranged deals and instructional materials, acting as a silent partner and teacher. The design allowed players to make their bids and plays by sliding pieces on the board, revealing the correct answers or next steps. It became quite popular among bridge players seeking to improve their skills or enjoy the game without needing a full table of players.