Coin sorting apparatus

Abstract

A coin sorting apparatus (A) includes a hopper ( ) into which a plurality of unsorted coins are deposited. A push-button switch ( ) is positioned adjacent the open mouth of the hopper ( ) and is operable in a one-handed manner by an operator of the apparatus (A) simultaneously with the action of depositing unsorted coins into the hopper. A coin separating mechanism dispenses coins from the hopper onto a ramp ( ) upon which the coins roll downward and pass through one of a plurality of apertures ( ) formed through the ramp according to their diameter. Coins that pass through each aperture ( ) are deposited onto one of a plurality of coin chutes ( ) . A plurality of sorted coin wrappers (W) are positioned respectively adjacent lower edges of the chutes ( ) , respectively. The wrappers are supported at their open upper ends ( ) by a collar assembly ( ) and at their constricted lower ends ( ) by a base assembly ( ). Coins from each chute ( ) are deposited directly into the appropriate one of the plurality of coin wrappers, without the need for any intermediate or additional sorted coin containers. A baffle ( ) is positioned over the chutes ( ) and forces the coins on each chute to slide on either their front or rear faces rather than roll or bounce. In the event a wrapper is filled to capacity with coins, an overflow tray ( ) extends from a forward region of the apparatus (A) and coins that pass over a filled wrapper drop into the tray ( ). An overflow coin deflector ( ) is provided to ensure that these overflow coins do not overshoot the tray ( ) altogether or enter the tray at such an angle and with such velocity that they bounce from the tray ( ).