Abstract: A coin sorter is described for sorting coins of different denominations by means of ramps and flaps, the sorted coins being directed to different chutes, one chute being provided for each coin denomination, the chutes and coin exit openings at the ends of chutes as well as the ramps being formed in two complementary parts of the coin sorter. The sorter may be provided either in a coin operated assembly for use in an existing coin operated vending machine or in a new machine and in either case is best used in conjunction with a coin totalizer having a ratchet wheel, a price cam and at least two circular cams, the price cam and circular cams being rotatable with the ratchet wheel when the latter is rotated by a trip wire-lever, the degree of rotation being determined by the chute through which a given coin passes.

Abstract: A vending machine for newspapers and the like having a coin operated mechanism with:(a) a coin sorter;(b) a coin chute assembly having a plurality of vertical chutes through which coins of different denominations, from the coin sorter, fall;(c) a trip wire, one end of which extends through the coin chutes and can move downwardly in the chutes with downward movement of coins;(d) a totalizer, connected to the other end of the trip wire, for counting the value of coins which fall through the coin chutes; and(e) a vending controller connected to the totalizer.