History of Chip Tricks
Since the beginning of organized gambling, people have fidgeted with their money, gold nuggets, chips, etc. Only in the 20th century, with the development of better stacking and uniform chips, have modern chip tricks become more popular. Dealers and players passing the time would inadvertently play with their chips. Of course, after years of practice, one little and unbecoming skill becomes quite smooth and interesting. To help build popularity in this art form, others would try a technique or two that they might have seen someone do.
This slow process continued in casinos and private games for years. Only magicians and performers would ever take the time to try to master multiple stunts with coins or chips as part of a demonstration. After all, tricks were subtle at the table and not meant for being flashy or intimidating. However, times do change. Since 1970, it has definitely become less of an etiquette issue to do fancy things at a table. In fact, players, spectators and dealers welcome unique skills at a table and consider anyone able to do masterful chip tricks and card handling as someone who “really knows how to play!" It is now part of the game and part of ones poker image. On the same note a casino dealer's skill is reflected in their ability to handle chips that are known to them as "cheques". Players and dealers alike have been known to practice chip tricks while at live games.
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