Blackjack Chips and Bets

The second thing to think about in a blackjack game after choosing the blackjack table to play is purchasing blackjack chips. And then later on, betting. To get blackjack chips on the blackjack table, you have to wait for a break in the game; or until the dealer shuffles a deck and asks for new players. Only then can you place your money on the blackjack table so the dealer can exchange them for blackjack chips. The typical buy-in is about 10 to 20 times your usual bet. For example: if you usually bet around $2 that would mean your buy-in amount is between $20- $40 at the start of the game.

You might be wondering why you cannot just butt in any time or why can't you just hand the money directly to the dealer? It is for security reasons.

When it is okay for you to join the blackjack game, place the money you are using to buy blackjack chips on the blackjack table. When the dealer sees it, he may offer you a seat, shove the money in and present you with your blackjack chips.

Please lay on the table the exact amount of money to buy blackjack chips. The whole amount you lay on the blackjack table will be used to buy blackjack chips and dealers are not expected give any change.

The blackjack chips like poker chips are standardized among casino. But that does not mean casino chips purchased in one casino can be used in another casino across the street. What is standardized in casino chips, as well as in poker and blackjack chips, are the colors. Red chips are equal to $5. Green chips are equivalent to $25. The black chips amount to $100. A one-dollar blackjack chip is colored white. Some casinos use a silver token for 'blackjack chip' valued at $1. For other casino that has $2.50 valued blackjack chips, these chips come in pink.

The variations among casino chips start around casino chips amounting over a hundred. Like for a $500, some casino will have it in color purple while others have it in some other color.

When the dealer hands you the blackjack chips, count the value of the chips to make sure you are given the right amount before the game starts. Be familiar with the color codes in the casino you are in. When in doubt you need not be afraid to ask the dealers. They are always ready to answer your questions. It is part of their job description to help customers learn the game and policies of the casino.

When you have your blackjack chips ready, you are now ready to bet. When you are seated at the blackjack table, you will notice a circle in front you. It on this circle that you will place your bet as each hand starts. That is the rule so get used to it. If you are using more than one denomination of blackjack chips such as a green and white blackjack chips, place the higher valued chips at the bottom while lower valued blackjack chips stacked on top.

Now you are all set to play blackjack. Deal the cards!