Vending Machine: An Ancient Holy Water DispenserHow a sacred problem created the first automated retail.

From the show

The Secret Life of Objects

The first vending machine wasn't for snacks, but to stop people from taking too much holy water in ancient temples. Invented by Hero of Alexandria, a coin's weight would trigger a lever, dispensing a set amount before a counterweight sealed the valve. This ancient device reveals how a modern symbol of commerce was born from a spiritual need to manage piety and prevent greed.