Authentic Arcade Cabs - Y/N?

[Richardgregory]

I'm actively scouting for "original" arcade cabs, but from what I've seen so far, I'm not sure what I'm looking for in determining whether it was an authentic cab at one time. It becomes a challenge when the person has done some restoration to the insides.  Anyhow, for example so far of what I've experienced:

1.  Wooden coin box - I thought they'd be just a plastic tray of some sort and not an actual wood box.
2.  Cabinet material:  chipboard/plywood, MDF is what I"ve seen. I suspect MDF would signify a homebrew cab?
3.  Cabinet sides are laminate coated over the wood.
4.  Inside of cabinet painted vs not painted.

Anyhow, thought I just throw this out there for folks who might have experience in authentic cabs.

Thanks

[Le Chuck]

I'm actively scouting for "original" arcade cabs, but from what I've seen so far, I'm not sure what I'm looking for in determining whether it was an authentic cab at one time. It becomes a challenge when the person has done some restoration to the insides.  Anyhow, for example so far of what I've experienced:

1.  Wooden coin box - I thought they'd be just a plastic tray of some sort and not an actual wood box.
2.  Cabinet material:  chipboard/plywood, MDF is what I"ve seen. I suspect MDF would signify a homebrew cab?
3.  Cabinet sides are laminate coated over the wood.
4.  Inside of cabinet painted vs not painted.

Anyhow, thought I just throw this out there for folks who might have experience in authentic cabs.

Thanks

Does it have a data plate?  Does it smell like an ashtray or really greasy food? Is there a layer of brown crud in the bottom that seems to have soaked into the wood? 

If you answered yes to any of these it is original.  Don't worry about your questions above because I've seen yes and no to all those questions on real cabinets.  Now a lot of cabinets will have weird ass conversions and repairs but IMO that is just part of a cabinet's life and doesn't really detract.  If it's changed shape then it isn't original but as long as the wood makes the same form as it did back in the day they you're good and can restore from there. 

PS - wire for wire repairs are only for those with crazy OCD and too much money.  Like classic car restoration - it's kind of a sickness in its own way.