Ever wondered why the number 7 is plastered across so many slot machines or why four-leaf clovers seem to pop up everywhere in casinos? It’s not random. Numbers and symbols have long been part of casino culture, and their significance is rooted in history, superstition, and psychology.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at why certain numbers and symbols dominate casino culture and what they represent.

Why Numbers Matter in Casinos

The Power of the Number 7

There’s a reason lucky 7 is plastered on nearly every slot machine and jackpot prize. The number 7 has been associated with luck and prosperity for centuries—way before casinos even existed. From being lucky in Christianity (think seven days of creation) to its presence in ancient mythology, the number has always carried a spark of positivity.

But the real magic happens in our brains. Studies show that humans are just like the number 7. It feels balanced, comforting, and significant. Casinos are all about creating an atmosphere of hope and excitement, so naturally, they use 7 as their go-to for symbolizing “big wins.”

Next time you’re at a slot machine with a row of 7s, remember—they’re strategic, not magic (at least, not entirely magic).

Unlucky Numbers — Yes, They’re a Thing

While 7 is celebrated, some numbers are notorious for bringing bad vibes. The number 13 tops this list. Many casinos around the world skip the 13th floor altogether—seriously. Walk into some high-rise casinos, and you’ll see the elevator buttons jump straight from 12 to 14.

But it doesn’t stop there. If you’re in Asia, the number 4 gets a bad rap because it sounds a lot like the Chinese word for “death.” Yep, death. Not the vibe casinos are going for.

Numbers That Work Overtime

• 21: Blackjack, anyone? The number 21 screams high stakes and winning strategies. It’s become iconic thanks to its association with the classic card game.
• 777 and 888: While 777 is the jackpot goal in Western culture, 888 takes the crown in Chinese culture. The number 8 sounds like the word for “wealth” in Mandarin, making it a favorite symbol for good fortune. Casinos catering to Asian gamblers use this to their advantage with neon 8s everywhere.

Symbols That Have Taken Over the Casino World

Fruit Machines That Started It All

Ever wonder why some old-school slot machines have cherries, bells, and bars on them? These symbols actually date back to the early days of slot machines. Originally, slots didn’t pay out money—they paid out chewing gum or candy.

• Cherries and lemons represented the flavors of gum you’d win.
• The BAR symbol, which is still iconic today, was the logo of the Bell-Fruit Gum Company, a major slot machine supplier in the early 20th century.

Four-Leaf Clovers and Horseshoes

You know what’s better than luck? Supernatural luck. Four-leaf clovers and horseshoes have long been considered symbols of good fortune. It’s no coincidence that casinos plaster these emblems on games and decor—they’re intentionally playing into the psychology of gamblers.

• Horseshoes (pointing up) are said to “catch” luck while pointing down supposedly spills it out. Moral of the story? Stick to slots where the horseshoe’s facing the right way.
• Four-leaf clovers are rarer than a royal flush in poker, which is why they’ve come to symbolize incredible luck.

FanDuel Casino even has a category for games featuring these symbols: “Luck o’ the Irish”. Four-leaf clovers, golden pots, and leprechauns are all part of the genre.  Check FanDuel Online Casino – Sign Up and Play.

Dice (Hello, Vegas)

There’s probably no more universal casino symbol than dice. Even if you’ve never played craps in your life, you’ve seen red dice cropped up ALL over casino décor. Why? It screams “chance,” the very essence of gambling.

Fun fact—At legit casinos, dice aren’t just regular cubes off Amazon. There are strict regulations for weight and balance to ensure every roll is truly random.

Lucky Charms… Or Not

Beyond recognizable symbols, casinos also love to lean on items that invoke personal superstition. Things like ladybugs, wishbones, and even dreamcatchers often show up to add layers of optimism (and charm) for the superstitious.

That said, don’t assume everything in a casino has a luck-based purpose. Slot machines covered in dolphins and diamonds? Those are just marketers having fun.

Casino Symbols and Our Brains

What’s fascinating about casinos isn’t just the symbols themselves; it’s how they interact with our brains. Humans are hardwired to buy into symbolism. These numbers and images tap into our emotions, superstitions, and basic instincts. It’s why we get a rush of excitement when we spot all those 7s lining up on a screen or feel drawn toward a slot machine covered in dollar signs.

Casinos are masters of psychology, and these symbols create a sense of familiarity, fun, and possibility. After all, you’re way more likely to keep playing when you’re convinced that your next pull, spin, or bet could be the one.

Fun Facts About Numbers and Symbols in Casinos

• Did you know that placing bets in combinations of 7 and 11 is common in craps because both numbers represent lucky rolls?
• Certain casinos in Asia use “Feng Shui” principles in their layouts and designs—including the strategic use of lucky numbers and symbols to enhance fortune.
• The Ace of Spades, often seen as the most powerful card in a deck, is also considered a symbol of luck (and, occasionally, bad luck) in various cultures.

Takeaway for Players

Here’s the thing—numbers and symbols are fun. They add personality to games and create an electric atmosphere. But remember, they’re not guaranteed to win. Casinos are businesses, and every detail, from the glowing 7s to that lucky horseshoe, is designed to keep you engaged, cheering, and ready for another round of roulette.

The best way to approach these symbols? Enjoy the entertainment, savor the thrill, and don’t get too hung up on whether this machine or that table feels luckier. Stay sharp, play smart, and you’ll always come out as a winner (whether in cash or in fun).  

See you at the slots! Keep an eye out for those 7s.