Im gonna take a shot in the dark and say if you haven't seen one in years, there is a reason.
We are still trying to wash off the tube marks. I could be totally off, just throwing some food for thought out there Just seems a bit shady of a way to live (assuming they Are illegal, not the operation of pushers in general).
I have heard that these can make some serious money. Not to mention, if they aren't legal, hows one supposed to come even close to making a legit living with Johnny law constantly picking up your machines? Im not extremely bright, but id think that would increase your cost of operating beyond being reasonably profitable. I cant see casually writing off a coin pusher at several hundred (more?) dollars. If lose a mint box i am not a happy camper, and that only cost me $56 out the door. As far as 'not being out much' if they get picked up.