Gold Coins vs Sweepstakes Coins
Understanding the dual-currency model that makes sweepstakes casinos legal.
- What is the difference between Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins?
- Gold Coins (GC) are play-money currency — they have no cash value and cannot be redeemed. Sweepstakes Coins (SC) are prize currency — they CAN be redeemed for real cash or gift cards (typically 1 SC = $1). You purchase Gold Coins; SC is awarded as a free promotional bonus.
- How do I get Sweepstakes Coins for free?
- Five main ways: (1) welcome bonus at signup, (2) promotional bonus with GC purchases, (3) daily login bonus, (4) social media giveaways, (5) mail-in AMOE (Alternative Method of Entry) — a postcard request that legally must be offered.
- What is AMOE (mail-in entry)?
- Alternative Method of Entry is a US legal requirement: sweepstakes must offer a free way to participate (no purchase necessary). You mail a postcard with your name and address to the operator's address listed in the rules and receive SC by mail. Look for "No Purchase Necessary" in the rules.
- Can I buy Sweepstakes Coins directly?
- No. SC cannot be directly purchased. They are awarded as a promotional bonus when you buy Gold Coin packages or via free-entry methods. This structure is what keeps sweepstakes casinos legal as promotions rather than gambling.
- What payment methods are accepted?
- Most operators accept Visa, Mastercard, ACH bank transfer, Apple Pay, and PayPal for GC purchases. Crypto (BTC, USDT) is available at some operators like Stake.us. Prepaid cards and gift cards are usually blocked to prevent fraud.