Casino Dice
Casino Dice
The dice in this collection originate from the United States. What sets casino dice apart from other types of dice are their sharp edges. Since these dice are used in games of chance, precise manufacturing is of utmost importance.
Unlike regular plastic dice, casino dice are not produced with injection molding but are instead milled. The pips are also milled and then filled with plastic in a contrasting color to ensure the weight of the sides remains balanced. Afterward, the dice are milled again for a flawless finish. The material used is cellulose acetate.
Historically, casino dice were made from cellulose nitrate, a material that unfortunately lacks stability. Over time, dice made from this material can release gases, crystallize, and eventually disintegrate, marking the end of the die’s usability. This process can be observed in some of the older examples in the collection.
Casino dice come in a variety of colors, with red being the most common. Other popular colors include green, blue, purple, and yellow. The dimensions may vary, but most dice are 19 or 20 mm in size.
Value and Prices
The value of a casino die is determined by several factors:
- The condition of the edges;
- Whether the die originates from a now-closed casino;
- Vintage status (approximately pre-1960);
- A logo with multiple colors;
- An exceptionally beautiful logo;
- A color other than red;
- Rare or limited editions.
In general, the older and better preserved the die, the more valuable it is. For enthusiasts and collectors, the book Dice: Deception, Fate & Rotten Luck serves as a valuable guide.
Security Features
To prevent fraud in casinos, casino dice are often equipped with special security features, such as:
- Serial Number: Each set of dice has a unique number.
- Glowing Pip: One pip is made of UV-active material that glows under blacklight.
- Key Letter Spot: A specific pip contains a small abbreviation or letter, visible on the outside but internally embedded.
- Reversed 2-3 Orientation: The pips for the numbers 2 and 3 are oriented in a specific way.
- Logo and Serial Number Colors: The serial number and logo can be given unique or even multiple colors.
These features make casino dice not only functional but also fascinating for collectors.
