A person except a player is guilty of possession of a gambling device when, with knowledge of the character thereof, he manufactures, sells, transports, places or possesses, or conducts or negotiates any transaction affecting or designed to affect ownership, custody or use of: a. A slot machine; or b. Any other gambling device, believing that the same is to be used in the advancement of unlawful gambling activity. Possession of a gambling device other than under such circumstances as would constitute a violation of section 116 of the Casino Control Act (P.L.1977, c. 110; C. 5:12-1 et seq.) is a disorderly persons offense; provided, however, that possession of not more than one gambling device other than a slot machine for social use within the home shall not be an offense under this section; and provided further, however that possession of one or more antique slot machines shall not be an offense under this section or under section 116 of the Casino Control Act (P.L.1977, c. 110; C. 5:12-1 et seq.). As used in this section, antique slot machine means a slot machine which was manufactured prior to 1941. Nothing herein contained shall be construed to authorize the use of an antique slot machine for any unlawful purpose or for gaming.
