The dual-currency model is the foundation of every U.S. sweepstakes casino. It separates play into two currencies: Gold Coins for entertainment with no cash value, and Sweeps Coins that can be redeemed for prizes once eligible.
This split is what keeps the platforms legal. Because players buy the entertainment currency and receive the redeemable currency for free, the activity qualifies as a promotional sweepstakes rather than gambling. The free Sweeps Coins satisfy no-purchase-necessary requirements.
Example usage
- The dual-currency model is why sweepstakes casinos are legal in 40-plus states.
- Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins form the dual-currency system.
Related terms
- Gold Coins (GC), The play-for-fun virtual currency at sweepstakes casinos that holds no cash value and cannot be redeemed for prizes.
- No-Purchase Necessary, The legal principle that a sweepstakes must offer a free way to enter and win, with no purchase required to participate.
- Sweeps Coins (SC), The promotional currency at sweepstakes casinos that can be played in games and, once eligible, redeemed for cash prizes or gift cards.
- Sweepstakes Casino, An online platform that offers casino-style games through a promotional sweepstakes model rather than direct real-money gambling.