My Spirit of 76 has a cover like that one as well.

Was it placed there to keep you from placing your hand or fingers on it? I would think that was it's purpose. Back then they did things with style! But today they would have at least made it out of non-conductive material.

Regarding that "wooden beauty", I offered him $200, for a re-theme this is the perfect candidate.

He never responded, not even a counter offer. Wanted it for the re-theme.

If the playfield was in better shape I would have been tempted to pick it up and restore it. But in that condition it's a ton of work and the back glass would be another ~$200.