Probably cheaper (and safer) to drill the lock, and get another one for $3.50 or so.

You can often use a big screw driver and gently and slowly pry the door open. I've done it once and seen it done once. If you are careful you won't damage anything. After you are in, bend the locking piece back straight and no harm done.

I can totally see this working in my mind's eye. those little latches inside are pretty weak.

Is it a wafer tumbler lock on the coin door? (look in with a flashlight, and look at the brass tumbler the keyway. If it looks flat, it's a wafer tumbler lock). That's usually what I see on home use machines. If it's a wafer tumbler lock, just pick the lock - wafer tumbler locks are pretty easy to pick; there are plenty of guides to lock picking online.

I personally would not pry the coin door open. It will bend the edge of the coin door and usually chips the paint. Drilling the lock is quick, easy and does not damage the pin.

Weren't the keys on a chain or ring? If so, how did that slide under the lockbar? Was there no beer seal?

I would first try to pick the lock as DrAzzy mentioned and if that doesn't work drill it out as SC mentioned. Hope it works out TG!!

that's terrible news gorilla! aw man thanks for sharing though, now I won't be inclined to make a similar mistake.

I would try picking, but most likely need to drill. Prying is not good.

If it's a wafer tumbler lock, picking is easier than drilling the lock. wafer tumbler locks are almost always trivial to pick, they're there to keep out the riffraff, not to keep out anyone who really wants in. If not wafer tumbler, drilling probably easier.

I frequently store my keys there as well.But I have rings with game name on them.......usually just toss them up on top. I also try and have duplicates in case of problems.