Illicit Pastime get-together: Australia's Preferred Unlawful Coin Toss Game
In the land down under, a coin game with a rich history and a modern twist is making a comeback - 2 Up. This game, believed to have evolved from the gambling game of pitch and toss, has its roots deep in the Australian colonial period.
While the exact origin of 2 Up is debated, it is widely accepted that it was a favourite pastime of convicts and later, Australian soldiers, particularly ANZAC troops during World War I. The game involves tossing two coins in the air, and players bet on whether the coins will land both heads, both tails, or a mix.
Traditionally, pennies have been the coins of choice due to their size, weight, and surface. However, other coins are considered too small and light for optimal gameplay.
In recent years, the rejuvenated popularity of 2 Up makes this Anzac Day an opportune time to try the game and see if luck is on your side. On this day, the game is legally played in licensed venues and at community events to honour the soldiers.
Despite the potential for significant losses, there is also the possibility of winning A$69,000 or more in a single game of 2 Up. Betting strategist Mike Steward proposed a strategy for 2 Up where players double up their bets until they win, but it is far from flawless. One player using Steward's strategy lost A$69,000 after losing 16 times in a row.
2 Up was first recorded in New South Wales in 1798 and gained popularity during the 19th century gold rush. In the 20th century, it reached a new level of popularity with the establishment of '2 Up Schools' across Australia. However, due to gambling laws, the game became less popular and is illegal all other days of the year.
Today, 2 Up can only be played at Crown Perth and Crown Melbourne casinos on Anzac Day. Despite its illegality, some 2 Up Schools have been set up in the Australian Outback to target tourists, increasing participation numbers.
The simplicity of 2 Up means that there is no house edge, making both winning and losing streaks equally probable. This adds to the game's appeal, as it offers an equal chance for everyone to win big.
So, as Anzac Day approaches, why not give 2 Up a try? You might just find yourself part of a tradition that dates back to convict times and soldier experiences in World War I. Whether you're a history buff or a gambling enthusiast, 2 Up offers a unique blend of both.
- The rejuvenated game of 2 Up, first recorded in New South Wales in 1798 and popularized during the 19th century gold rush, has found its place in modern-day casinos like Crown Perth and Crown Melbourne.
- Despite the game's simplicity, the potential for significant losses, such as the $69,000 lost by one player using a betting strategy, underscores the element of unpredictability that makes casino-games like 2 Up a popular form of entertainment.
- The casino-culture of gambling trends has seen a revival of traditional games like 2 Up, originally a favourite pastime of convicts and Australian soldiers, on events like Anzac Day.
- As sports-betting becomes more mainstream, it's interesting to note the similarities between the thrill of 2 Up and the excitement surrounding casino-and-gambling events, offering a unique form of entertainment beyond the standard sports scene.
