Frank Costello made deals with a company in Chicago, the Mills Novelty Company, to make the machines for his New York-based Tru-Mint Company. Costello was able to place these machines in candy stores, speakeasies, restaurants, and other places which paid him part of the proceeds. Since the machines delivered a mint into the hands of the patron, Costello could argue that it was a candy vending operation. Costello even provided small ladders so children could reach the machines and play.