Gaming chips are disc-shaped objects that act as money in gambling establishments. In this article, we will explain what the features of the production of chips are, what their denomination depends on, how they are used in various games, what is the role of chips in the casino security system, and much more.The appearance of chips is associated with an attempt to standardise financial transactions in casinos. However, features of the manufacture of chips are still a trade secret of manufacturers. Recall that in online casino UK there are no chips as such; it’s all decided by the rates, which also essentially facilitates calculations.
History of Casino Chips
Tokens are a kind of currency for casinos and greatly simplify many transactions related to the financial side of the gambling establishment. Though various types of gambling existed in ancient times and the first gambling houses appeared in Venice in the 17th century, chips are a relatively new casino invention.
Until the end of the 19th century, chips were replaced by various valuable objects that could act as stakes. Sometimes players even used small pieces of gold or silver, coins, or fiat money. The development of gambling establishments required a systematisation of the payout mechanism and the objects with which bets could be placed. Thus, prototypes of the chips familiar to modern times appeared. In high-class gambling establishments, unique tokens were made of ivory. However, they were often counterfeited, so the owners of gambling establishments put unique markings on the surface – distinctive signs.
In the 1880s, there was a revolution in the manufacture of chips. Chips began to be made from clay and had the same size, which was achieved by using moulds. These were the forerunners of modern chips. Their main drawback was impracticality – they quickly broke or lost their appearance if handled carelessly. Then manufacturing companies began experimenting with the composition of the clay, selecting it so that the chips became more durable.
The chip edge spots are made of the same material as the chip itself, but they are not coated with paint. Instead, to achieve a similar effect, the clay area is sanded down and replaced with the clay of a different shade before the clay blocks are given a flat chip shape. The graphics or inlay is then applied, sure to be covered with a skinny layer of plastic. The blanks are then placed in a mould, where they are recast and become the right size and shape.
In the 80s, traditional clay chips were replaced by ceramic chips, which became famous because you could apply patterns and graphics on their entire surface.
Modern chips have evolved to offer, among other security features, radio frequency identification and ultraviolet marking.
Denomination and Colour of Chips
There is no single standard for matching the colour and value of chips. The palette varies from establishment to establishment. The standard denominations are 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500. When it comes to poker specifically, $1,000 and $25,000 worth of chips may also be seen at the high roller tournament table.
- The traditional colour scheme for covering chips is white, blue, green, black, red, and purple.
- Typically white chips are $1, red chips are $5, blue chips are $10, green chips are $25, black chips are $100, and purple chips are $500.
Chips and Security
Each casino uses a unique chipset, sometimes even changing its value. In addition, the chips serve several security functions, which is why edge patterns, different colors, shades and graphic designs are so important. Innovations have not spared casino chips, so modern gambling houses often use radio frequency identification (RFID) technology.
Where Can We Buy Chips?
Each casino will allow you to purchase chips at the cash desk by paying cash or via bank transfer. However, it is essential to remember that chips are not universal and are only accepted in the casino where they were purchased.
Use of Chips in Gambling Poker
In poker, the simple rule is that the more players participating in a tournament, the fewer small denomination chips you will need. In addition, not only the number of players at the table but also the type of tournament influences the choice of the set of game chips. The fact is that different groups of chips are needed when playing limit and no-limit poker. Therefore, of great importance is the starting distribution of fragments.
If an option at the game table allows extra chips, extra chips must also be provided. According to an excerpt from the rules approved by the World Association of Poker Tournament Organisers:
- Chips in small denominations cannot be used in mandatory bets. In this case, they will remain on the table until an exchange is made;
- The number and value of starter chips given out before the game depends on the specific rules of the tournament.
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