Ok, I got one for ya. Where did the term "monkey" come from when someone
asks for a face card in table games such as blackjack and baccarat?
The
only
reference I can find in books, magazines, and online is that it refers to
a
face card. Ok, fine, why?
Thanks,
Trevor
Dear Trevor:
The word "monkey" means something that is mischievous and can change a
situation quickly. In games where a face card can change what is happening
dramatically players will call for a "monkey" hoping for that dramatic
change. There are also old playing cards, from what I understand, that have
monkeys as the highest cards. This was told to me by a pit boss.
If there is some other origin of monkey, maybe one of our readers will write
in and let us know.
All the best in and out of the casinos!
Frank Scoblete
