Abstract: A newspaper vending machines for vending a single copy of a periodical. The newspaper vending machine includes a generally rectangular cabinet with a separate periodical loading door and periodical dispensing opening having a door. A coin controlled latching mechanism controls the operation of the door of the dispensing opening. The periodicals rest on a moveable platform, which can move upward as the periodicals are dispense through the dispensing opening. A carriage assembly, the carriage assembly in operative engagement with the dispensing handle, includes a multiplicity of fingers depending vertically downward from a rearward member on the carriage assembly. The fingers engage the trailing edge of the top periodical and, when the dispensing door is opened, the carriage assembly moves the top periodical to the dispensing opening for receipt by a consumer.