Does anyone know what this is?

[JerryVan]

The flanged and tapered thing has been a mystery to me too.

Maybe some form of brake worked against it?

[edisonclassm]

My suspicion is that it comes from some obscure coin-op from the time period like a Gabel's Entertainer

[Dr_Buzzsaw]

I think you nailed it. Thank you!

Addendum:
Found some pictures of a later Gabel's Entertainer mechanism (link below) that appears to have the same cast iron frame and flanged wheel. I'd lead myself astray thinking it was earlier, because of things like the pin-striping and straight-cut gears. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions.

https://www.worthpoint.com/worthopedia/ ... 3835733987