Coins on machines

Is there any reason coins are used on many tattoo machines? Is it part of the electical function of the machine or is it some kind of old school tattoo look?

Both actually. Old schoolers used coins on their machines when they didnt have washers or shims for them. Coins also conduct current really well. Nowadays most of the parts are readily available but it looks a lot cooler to have quarters and dimes on 'em!!

I might be wrong, but except for a coin used on the spring shelf, most of the coins/washers you'll see on a tattoo machine are insulated from any current/circuit, so conductivity is a non-issue. Sorry if this crosses the techtalk issue line.

I got 'em on the rear springs of my machines, and the pennies and stuff do make a difference. I've known guys who had them on the front binding posts as well. They do work!

I have used coins on my machines just because we had a pay toilet at the shop. I ALWAYS forgot to carry change and my customers were complaining of strange foul smells. I could never get used to people watching me pick a lock to the toilet. I suspect that all of the other tattooists are using coins for the same exact reason. Do you REALLY expect them to be as honest as me? This is......em-BARE-ASS-sing. So.,.....NOW you know the truth. PaleoJohn

...Alright so i guess they arent TOTALLY functional... But i swear my machine has magical powers ever since i put 'em on there!! Or maybe the heats getting to me...

I use coins for machine parts because they're easy to drill,grind,machine and allway got a pocket full.

i use them on my frames because i use flathead screws on my machines and if my butter knife slips it wont ding up my beautiful frame..lol