Casino
Updated May 24, 2024
Reviewed By @geauxirish

What are Sweeps Coins vs Gold Coins? Complete Sweepstakes Casinos Guide

What are Sweeps Coins?

Sweeps Coins are a type of virtual currency used in sweepstakes online social casinos. These coins play a crucial role in allowing players to participate in casino-style games and potentially win real cash prizes. 

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Key Takeaways of Sweeps Coins:

  • Sweeps Coins are used in sweepstakes games within social casinos where winnings can be redeemed for real money or other prizes. Unlike regular in-game currency, they have a tangible value outside the game environment.
  • Sweepstakes entry tokens may come awarded as bonuses when purchasing another type of virtual currency called Gold Coins, which are used for playing games for fun.
  • Players can earn free Sweeps Coins to play through various promotions, global social media contests, and giveaways conducted by the casino. Some platforms provide ways to obtain these coins without purchase, such as mail-in offers or free daily login bonuses that come as free Sweeps Coins.
  • Players use Sweeps Coins to enter and play games like slotspokerblackjack, and more. These games are similar to those played with Gold Coins but with the added benefit of being able to convert Sweeps Coins into cash and a real prize potential.
  • When playing sweepstakes casino games, any winnings are also in Sweeps Coins, which can be accumulated and redeemed.

What are Gold Coins?

Gold Coins are a type of virtual currency used in sweepstakes casinos for playing various casino games and they are used to play socially. Gold Coins are used to play games like slots, poker, blackjack, and more, without the risk of losing real money since they have no real monetary value. When you are using your Gold Coins balance in the casino, all your winnings are in Gold Coins. Gold Coins are designed for entertainment and practice, providing players with a risk-free way to enjoy casino-style games.

Difference between Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins in Sweeps Casinos and social gaming?

DetailsGold CoinsSweeps Coins
PurposePrimarily for entertainment and practice.Used in games where winnings can be redeemed for real money or prizes.
Monetary ValueNo real monetary value; cannot be redeemed for real money.Hold potential real-world value because they can be redeemed for cash or other prizes.
AcquisitionPurchased with real money, received as daily bonuses, or earned through in-game activities and promotions.Awarded as bonuses with Gold Coin purchases, through bonuses, referring a friend, or other free methods like social media contests.
UsageUsed to place bets and play various casino games. Wins and losses only affect the Gold Coin balance, not real-world finances, so remember to switch between gold coin and sweeps coins balances.Used to enter sweepstakes games. Wins from these games are in Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for cash or prizes upon meeting certain requirements.
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How to Win Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins for Real Prizes?

To win Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins for real prizes in sweepstakes-based online casinos, there are several strategies and methods you can employ:

  • Purchasing Gold Coins: One way to obtain both Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins is by purchasing a batch of Gold Coins with real money. Often, these purchases come with bonus Sweeps Coins, providing you with additional opportunities to win real prizes.
  • Participating in Promotions and Events: Keep an eye out for special promotions, events, and challenges offered by the casino. These may include opportunities to earn Sweeps Coins or Gold Coins as rewards for meeting certain criteria or participating in specific activities.
  • Daily Bonuses: Many sweepstakes casinos offer daily login bonuses, where you can collect free Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins just by logging into your account regularly. These bonuses can accumulate over time, increasing your chances of winning real prizes.
  • Referral Programs: Some casinos offer referral programs where you can earn extra Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins by referring friends to the platform. This can be a great way to boost your coin balance and increase your chances of winning.
  • Participating in Games: Use your Sweeps Coins to enter sweepstakes games offered by the casino. These games give you the opportunity to win real prizes, including cash, electronics, gift cards, and more. Keep playing and entering sweepstakes to maximize your chances of winning. Earn Gold Coins through in-game milestones, achievements, and activities. 
  • Taking Advantage of Free Methods: Some casinos offer methods to earn free SC without purchase. This may include participating in social media contests, completing surveys, or taking advantage of other promotional offers.
  • Play High RTP Games: Focus on games with a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage for better long-term payouts.

Redeeming and Using Sweeps Coins and Gold Coins

How to Redeem Sweeps Coins for Real Cash Prizes?

Sweeps Coins function similarly to "bonus funds" in online casinos, which means you must fulfill all the associated bonus terms before you can redeem your SCs for prizes. Here’s a brief overview of the most common bonus terms and conditions:

  • Wagering requirement: You must wager your Sweeps Coins at least once before they become redeemable. Some sweepstakes casinos may set this limit higher, but it rarely exceeds 5x. Any Sweeps Coins you win will become "redeemable" and be transferred to a separate section in your balance.
  • No Direct Purchase: Sweepstakes coins can’t be bought. They are typically obtained as a complimentary bonus alongside the purchase of Gold Coins or through promotional activities in coin casinos where they offer coins to new players. Use Sweeps Coins to play various casino games within the sweepstakes casino. Winnings from these games will also be in Sweeps Coins.
  • Minimum redemption threshold: This is the minimum amount of redeemable coins you must have in your balance to request a redemption. This limit is typically lower for gift cards (+10 SCs) and higher for cash or cryptocurrency prizes (+50 SCs).
  • Eligibility requirement: Players from states where sweepstakes gaming is not supported can usually play with Gold Coins but cannot redeem Sweeps Coins. Most sweepstakes casinos exclude states where this type of gaming is illegal, such as Washington, Idaho, and Michigan. The use of Sweeps Coins is structured to comply with sweepstakes laws, which means they are often part of a promotional offering and not directly purchased. This legal distinction allows these social and sweepstakes casinos to operate in jurisdictions where traditional gambling on the internet might be restricted.

When you see the terms and conditions are fulfilled, navigate to the redemption section of the casino's website or app, which is usually located in the Wallet section if an independent button isn’t included. Select the amount of Sweeps Coins you wish to redeem. 

Follow the instructions, which typically involve verifying your identity and possibly providing payment details for receiving the cash prize. After successful verification and processing, the redeemed amount will be transferred to your bank account or payment method as specified by the casino.

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Can Gold Coins be Converted into Sweeps Coins?

Gold Coins cannot be directly converted into Sweeps Coins, as they are primarily used for entertainment and practice without any real monetary value. However, you can acquire Sweeps Coins indirectly through various methods. When you purchase packages of Gold Coins, some sweepstakes casinos include bonus Sweeps Coins as part of the deal. 

Additionally, participating in events, completing challenges, and taking advantage of special promotions can also reward you with Sweeps Coins. Although direct conversion is not possible, these methods provide opportunities to obtain Sweeps Coins while engaging with Gold Coins.

Using Gold Coins to Play Casino Games in Sweepstakes Casinos

Purchasing or Acquiring Gold Coins:

  • Buy Gold Coins using real money through the casino's payment options or acquire Gold Coins through bonuses offered by the casino
  • These coins are for playing games and enjoying the casino experience without financial risk.

Playing Games:

  • Select a Game: Choose from a variety of casino games available on the platform, such as slots, poker, blackjack, and more.
  • Place Bets: The player makes use of gold coins to place bets and play the games. The games operate similarly to their real-money counterparts but use Gold Coins for stakes and rewards.

Enjoy the Experience:

  • Entertainment Focus: Playing with Gold Coins allows you to enjoy the thrill of casino games without the risk of losing real money.
  • Social Features: Many social casinos offer features like leaderboards, tournaments, and social interactions to enhance the gaming experience.

Daily Bonuses and Rewards:

  • Log in daily to get free Gold Coins.
  • Participate in promotions and events to maximize your Gold Coin balance and extend your playtime.

The Mechanics of Sweepstakes Casinos

How Do Sweepstakes Casinos Work with Coins?

Sweepstakes casinos operate using a dual-currency system that allows them to provide a gambling-like experience legally in jurisdictions where traditional online gambling might be restricted. The two types of coins commonly used are Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins, that we previously explained in this article.

For those seeking to enjoy online casino slots with the chance to win cash prizes at no cost, Fortune Coins emerges as an excellent choice. Moreover, players can indulge in entertaining gameplay using abundant Gold Coins, thanks to a generous welcome bonus. 

Upon registration and linking of your Facebook account, you can promptly access Gold Coins and 500 Fortune Coins. To enhance your virtual currency reserves, you can proceed to verify your email and mobile phone number.

Related Read: Scratchful Casino Review 2024

Integrating Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins in Casino Gameplay

Players are often incentivized to purchase Gold Coins with the added benefit of receiving bonus Sweeps Coins. When playing with Gold Coins, players engage in games purely for entertainment, enjoying the experience without any real monetary risk or reward. 

When playing with Sweeps Coins, players participate in games where they have the potential to win real prizes. These games are typically identical to the Gold Coin versions but with the added excitement of real-world rewards. Most of the popular sweepstakes casinos will use a highly visible “toggle button”, which allows you to swap from one currency to another.

Understanding the Difference Between Real Money and Virtual Coins

Understanding the contrast between real money and virtual coins in sweepstakes casinos is crucial for players navigating these platforms. While real money holds tangible value and can be used for direct transactions, virtual coins such as Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins, serve distinct purposes within the casino environment. Real money involves financial risk and direct expenditure, whereas virtual coins are primarily intended for gameplay and entertainment, often obtained through purchases, bonuses, or promotional activities. 

Virtual Coins:

  • Gold Coins: Lack real-world value and are exclusively utilized for recreational purposes. They serve to enhance the enjoyment of gameplay, extend the duration of play sessions, and contribute to the overall entertainment experience within the casino environment.
  • Sweeps Coins: While not available for direct purchase, possess inherent value as they can be exchanged for real cash or prizes upon achieving victory in games. They inject an exhilarating element into gameplay by offering the opportunity to win tangible rewards, thus combining the thrill of social gaming with the excitement of sweepstakes.

Real Money:

  • Purchases: Players use real money to buy Gold Coins, which can sometimes come with bonus Sweeps Coins.
  • Redemption: Wins from games played with Sweeps Coins can be converted into real money, making Sweeps Coins a bridge between virtual play and real-world rewards.

By comprehending this difference, players can make informed decisions about their gaming experience, balancing entertainment with financial considerations. The sweepstakes model ensures compliance with legal regulations by offering Sweeps Coins as bonuses or promotional items rather than through direct purchase, thus differentiating it from traditional gambling.

What is a Social Casino? 

A social casino is an online platform or app that offers casino-style games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and roulette for entertainment purposes. These games simulate the experience of playing in a real casino but do not involve real money gambling. Key features of social casinos include:

  • Virtual Currency: Players use virtual coins or credits to play games. These coins can often be purchased with real money or earned through gameplay and promotions.
  • Social Interaction: Social casinos typically include features that allow players to interact with friends, send and receive gifts, and compete on leaderboards.
  • Entertainment Focus: The primary goal of social casinos is entertainment rather than gambling. While players can spend money to buy virtual currency or access premium features, they cannot win real money.

Is a Social Casino the Same as a Sweeps Casino?

A sweeps casino bears resemblance to a social casino in various aspects, yet it distinguishes itself through the significant feature of offering real prizes. While both types of casinos provide a similar gaming experience, the ability to win tangible rewards sets sweeps casinos apart. Here, players can engage in casino-style games with the added excitement of potentially claiming real prizes, marking a notable difference between the two.

Key differences and similarities include:

Similarities:

  • Virtual Currency: Both social casinos and sweeps casinos use virtual currencies. In social casinos, these are often called Gold Coins or similar.
  • Games: Both platforms offer casino-style games such as slots, poker, blackjack, and more.
  • Entertainment: Both aim to provide entertainment and a social gaming experience.

Differences:

  • Real Prizes: The defining feature of sweeps casinos is the ability to win real prizes or cash through their sweepstakes model. Players use a specific type of virtual currency, often called Sweeps Coins, which can be redeemed for real money or prizes.
  • Legal Framework: Sweeps casinos operate under sweepstakes laws, which allow them to offer real prizes without being classified as gambling. This is achieved by giving away Sweeps Coins through promotions, purchases of Gold Coins (which have no real monetary value), and other methods that don't require direct payment for the chance to win.
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Maximizing Winnings and Rewards

Tips to Increase Your Wins with Sweeps Coins in Online Casinos

  • Opt for High RTP Games: Prioritize games boasting a high Return to Player (RTP) percentage, as they statistically yield superior long-term payouts. 
  • Understand Game Mechanics: Familiarize yourself with the rules and features of the games you play. Knowing how bonus rounds and special features work can give you an edge.
  • Bankroll Management: Set a budget for your Sweeps Coins and stick to it. Avoid chasing losses and manage your coins wisely to extend your playtime.
  • Play During Promotions: Take advantage of special promotions or events that offer extra Sweeps Coins or increased chances of winning.
  • Practice with Free Games: Many sweepstake casinos offer free versions of their games or use Gold Coins. Use these to practice and develop strategies without risking your Sweeps Coins.

Unlocking Bonuses and Welcome Offers with Gold Coins in Sweepstake Casinos

  • Sign-Up Bonuses: Most sweepstake casinos offer welcome bonuses when you first sign up. Ensure you claim these bonuses to get extra Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins.
  • First Purchase Deals: Take advantage of any offers that give additional Sweeps Coins or bonuses when you make your first purchase of Gold Coins.
  • Daily Bonuses: Log in daily to collect any free Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins that might be offered as part of a daily bonus.
  • Referral Programs: Refer friends to the casino to earn extra Gold Coins or Sweeps Coins through referral bonuses.
  • Social Media Promotions: Follow the casino on social media to stay updated on special promotions, contests, and giveaways that can increase your coin balance.

Strategies for Converting Sweeps Coins into Cash Prizes in Sweepstakes Sites

  • Harness Free Entries: Take full advantage of all available free-entry contests and promotions offered by the platform. Participating in these opportunities allows you to earn additional Sweeps Coins without any financial investment, augmenting your overall coin balance.
  • Strategic Redemption: Exercise prudence in redeeming your Sweeps Coins for cash prizes. Consider waiting until you have amassed a substantial amount of Sweeps Coins before initiating the redemption process. This strategic approach ensures that you maximize the value of your coins and capitalize on any minimum redemption requirements imposed by the platform.
  • Monitor Your Performance: Maintain a detailed record of your wins and losses across various games. This practice enables you to discern which games are more profitable for you, enabling informed decision-making regarding gameplay strategies and coin utilization.
  • Read Terms and Conditions: Review and comprehend the platform's rules and regulations governing the redemption of Sweeps Coins. Pay close attention to any stipulated wagering requirements or restrictions, ensuring compliance and optimizing your redemption process.

Best Sweepstakes Casinos 2024

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Spree

Spree Casino is an emerging sweepstakes casino offering a variety of games with the potential to win real prizes through their unique virtual currency system. For the full review, check out our Spree Casino Review 2024 and the best Spree bonus codes

Games Offered: Slots, table games and blackjack or roulette with Real Dealers.

Currencies: 

  • Gold Coins: Used for entertainment purposes only.
  • Spree Coins: Spree Coins won through Game play may be considered eligible to be redeemed for prizes.

Promotions/Bonuses: 

  • FREE 1M GOLD COINS! No purchase necessary, just by creating your free account.
  • First Purchase Offer: Get 30,000 GC for just $9.99 or 200% extra.
  • Earn 10 Spree Coins for each referred friend.
  • Win up to 100 SC in random Prize Drops.

Currently, Spree Coins, which are obtained completely for free and can’t be purchased, can be used to play the Sweepstakes Games for a chance to win more Spree Coins that you may redeem for a prize. 

Check out the latest no deposit bonus offers here. 

2. High 5 Casino

High 5 Casino is a social online casino that offers players the world's best slot games and features, including Leaderboards, Rapid Rewards, Jackpots and Boost on Demand. High 5 Casino also provides players with the opportunity to win and redeem for cash and even gift cards to many popular restaurants and stores.

Games Offered: Over 800 slots and table games, including popular classics like American Blackjack and Roulette.

Currencies: 

  • High 5 Casino Coins (HC): Are used to play games in Standard Social Gameplay. HC have no real money value and are not redeemable.
  • Game Coins (GC): Are identical to HC in every way except they are only available to Players to play games on the H5C Sweeps Platform.
  • Sweeps Coins (SC): To Cash out with Real Cash or gift cards for some of your favorite retailers
  • Diamonds: Are a secondary currency which allow Players to purchase and activate in-game boosts.

Promotions/Bonuses: 

  • Free 250 Game Coins, 5 Sweeps Coins & 600 Diamonds when you sign up.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

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Stake US

Stake.US is an online social casino offering an exceptional gaming experience with a wide variety of casino games. Initially featuring unique first-party games, the platform now hosts hundreds of titles from top iGaming providers.

Games Offered: Stake original casino games, slot games, table games, live dealer casino games and online scratch card games.

Currencies: 

  • Gold Coins: Do not have a monetary value and can only be used to play Standard Games.
  • Stake Cash (Sweeps Coins): Only games played with Stake Cash provide the opportunity to redeem for Prizes. The Prize that can be won while playing a Game will be shown in the Platform by clicking the “Redeem” button.

Promotions/Bonuses:  

  • Free Stake cash everyday.
  • 250 Million GC + Free 25K SC Raffle.
  • 50 Million GC Daily Races.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

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Funrize

Funrize offers a diverse gaming platform with numerous opportunities to win real money prizes through their sweepstakes model. This online platform operates in 2 different modes: tournament mode, which uses a coin with no monetary value, and promotional mode, where you can get prizes.

Games Offered: Slots, table games, and unique specialty games.

Currencies: 

  • Tournament coins: A virtual currency to play the wide variety of games provided by Funrize and compete in Funrize tournaments. All Tournament Coins whether purchased or accumulated, cannot be exchanged, traded, or transferred for real money.
  • Promotional Entries (Sweeps Coins): Promotional Entries can be obtained as a bonus through the purchase of Tournament Coins. For real prize opportunities.

Promotions/Bonuses: 

  • 125,000 Tournament coins Welcome Bonus.
  • Get rewarded for every friend, making up to 25,000 Entries.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

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McLuck

McLuck Casino is a newer entrant in the sweepstakes casino space, known for its user-friendly platform. McLuck ensures a fun and immersive gaming experience.

Games Offered: Slots, table games and blackjack or roulette with Real Dealers.

Currencies: 

  • Gold Coins: Exclusively for recreational play with no cash value or redemption options.
  • Sweepstakes Coins: These coins can be used to engage in games and redeemed for cash prizes or gift cards.

Promotions/Bonuses: 

  • 7,500 Gold Coins + 2.5 Sweepstakes Coins Welcome Bonus. 
  • 150% extra on your first purchase.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN.

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Pulsz

Pulsz Casino is a well-established sweepstakes casino that includes everything from online slots (500+ titles) and scratchcards to poker, blackjack and other casino games. You'll also find exciting themed games and unique titles that'll keep you coming back for more.

Games Offered: Hundreds of slots, table games, and live games.

Currencies: 

  • Gold Coins: Used for entertainment purposes only.
  • Sweepstakes Coins: For real money prizes.

Promotions/Bonuses: 

  • 5000 Gold Coins + Sweepstakes Coins Welcome Bonus.

For me details, read our Pulsz Casino Review and get the latest Pulsz promo codes 2024

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Sweepstakes Coins: Complete Glossary

  • Win amount or Prize: The total monetary value or virtual currency awarded to a player when they achieve a winning outcome in a game. This can be in the form of real money, virtual coins, or other rewards.
  • Return to Player (RTP):  Is a term used in gambling and online games to refer to the percentage or prizes that will be returned to a player depending on funds deposited during the game initially. 
  • Award(s): Rewards or prizes given to a player for achieving certain outcomes or completing specific tasks in a game.
  • Awarding: The process of giving a reward or prize to a player.
  • Awarded: Describes a reward or prize that has been given to a player.
  • Is Awarded: Indicates that a player has received a reward or prize.
  • Wins: Instances where a player achieves a winning combination or outcome in a game, resulting in a prize or award.
  • Lines: Not to be confused with Lines.com, this refers to the specific paths across the reels of a slot machine on which matching symbols must land for a player to win. These can be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal.
  • Ways: A method of winning in some slot games where winning combinations can be formed in multiple ways across the reels, not restricted to specific lines. For example, 243 ways to win means there are 243 possible winning combinations.
  • Winning Lines: Specific paylines where matching symbols must appear for a player to win a prize.
  • Win Table: Also known as a paytable, it lists all possible winning combinations in a game and the corresponding prizes for each combination.
  • Prize: A reward given to a player for achieving a winning outcome, which can be in the form of money, virtual coins, or other items.
  • Coin(s): Virtual currency used to place bets or play games in social casinos. They often have no real-world monetary value but are essential for gameplay.
  • Coin Type: Refers to the different categories of virtual currency within a social casino. For example, Gold Coins might be used for free play, while Sweeps Coins can be redeemed for real prizes.
  • Play: Engaging in a game or placing a bet within the casino.
  • Play Level: The difficulty or tier at which a game is played, often affecting the bet size or stakes.
  • Play Amount: The number of coins or the value of the bet placed on a game.
  • Total Play: The aggregate amount of coins or money wagered over a period of time or during a gaming session.
  • Not Enough Coins Available to Play: A notification indicating that the player does not have sufficient virtual currency to place a bet or start a game.
  • Play Feature: A special game mode or bonus round within a game.
  • Playing Feature: Engaging in a special game mode or bonus round.
  • Played Feature: A special game mode or bonus round that has been completed.
  • Take a Chance: To engage in a game or place a bet, usually implying that there is some risk involved with the possibility of winning a prize.
  • Value(s): The worth or denomination of coins or the amount of money represented in a bet or prize.

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