Gold Coins vs Sweeps: Key Differences

Sweepstakes casinos feature two primary types of virtual currency: gold coins and sweeps coins. Gold coins, or “GCs,” are typically used for entertainment purposes and hold no monetary value, making them ideal for “pure” social casinos where cash prizes aren’t available. These coins are perfect for testing games before wagering your valuable sweeps coins. Unlike online casinos that offer demo versions, many sweepstakes platforms don’t provide such options.

Gold coins and sweeps coins often have an intrinsic connection. While sweeps coins can’t be purchased directly, they are frequently awarded as bonuses when you buy gold coin packs. Most sweepstakes casinos provide both currencies as part of their sign-up bonuses, making additional purchases of gold coins unnecessary.

The key difference between gold coins and sweeps coins lies in their utility. Sweeps coins are considered “bonus funds” that need to be wagered a specific number of times (rollover) before they can be redeemed. Typically, you must meet a minimum redemption threshold (usually 40-80 sweeps coins) to claim any prizes.

How to Switch to Sweeps Coins?

Switching from gold coins to sweeps coins is a simple yet crucial process at most sweepstakes casinos. These platforms usually feature a prominent “toggle button” that lets you switch between currencies. However, if you are in the middle of a game, the transition requires the game to reload to reflect the new currency. Always ensure you are aware of which mode you are playing in to avoid any confusion.

How to Get Free Sweeps Coins?

Sweepstakes casinos offer numerous ways to earn additional free sweeps coins. While each platform is unique, common methods include bonuses, promotions, alternative entry modes, and social media contests.

The most prevalent ways to receive free sweeps coins include:

Welcome Bonus

Free sweeps coins are usually credited upon registration.

Mail-in Bonus

Also known as the “alternative method of entry” (AMOE), this bonus awards free sweeps coins to players who send a handwritten postcard to the casino’s operator.

Refer a Friend

Refer friends using a referral link and receive free sweeps coins when they sign up.

First Purchase Bonus

Enjoy exclusive discounts on gold coin packages, offering significant savings.
Additionally, sweepstakes casinos often run slot races, challenges, tournaments, and social media contests, which can provide more opportunities to earn free sweeps coins. Always check these promotions to maximize your virtual currency.

For the best virtual currency deals at reputable platforms, use our links to sign up with leading US sweepstakes casinos.

Sweeps Coins Applications

At social casinos offering real cash prizes, you can choose which virtual currency to use. Both gold coins and sweeps coins are usually displayed on the lobby screen, with the active currency highlighted. For example, at WOW Vegas, switching to sweeps coins is as simple as tapping the sweeps coins icon.

Using sweeps coins is similar to using real money at online casinos. Select a game, choose your wager, and instead of cash, you’ll be wagering virtual currency that holds real monetary value. SweepsKings experts recommend familiarizing yourself with your chosen sweepstakes casino by using gold coins or demoing games first.

Redeeming Sweeps Coins for Cash Prizes

To convert sweeps coins into cash, you must meet specific bonus rules. Sweeps coins are considered “bonus funds” at online casinos, meaning you need to fulfill the following conditions:

Wagering Requirement

Play through your sweeps coins at least once. Some casinos set higher limits, but rarely above 5x. Once completed, your sweeps coins become “redeemable” and are moved to a separate eWallet area.

Minimum Redemption Threshold

The minimum balance of redeemable coins required before you can request a redemption. Typically, this is lower for gift cards (15-30 sweeps coins) and higher for cash or crypto prizes (60-90 sweeps coins).

Eligibility Requirement

Players from unsupported states can play for gold coins but cannot redeem sweeps coins. Sweepstakes casinos often blacklist states where sweepstakes gaming is illegal, such as Washington, Idaho, and Michigan.
Once these terms are met, tap “Redeem” in the Wallet section, pass the know-your-customer (KYC) check, choose your payment method, provide banking information, and select the number of coins to redeem.

Why Do Online Casinos Use Sweeps Coins?

US sweepstakes casinos adhere to legal requirements, ensuring real money purchases are never necessary. Players receive ample virtual currency through bonuses and promotions. Sweepstakes casinos can’t sell sweeps coins or items of value directly; they act as sponsors, offering free sweeps coins through promotions, tournaments, and contests.

Best Social Casinos with Sweeps Coins

Sweepstakes casinos aim to attract and entertain players uniquely. However, some platforms excel more than others. At BestSweepsStakeCasinos, we evaluate the best sweepstakes casinos based on:

Reputation: Platforms run by reputable operators that pass our transparency tests.
Game Variety: Offering hundreds of games from top-tier vendors like Pragmatic and Hacksaw, including slots, jackpots, megaways, table games, and exclusives.
Banking Options: Providing mainstream payment methods such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and online banking.
Bonuses: Easy-to-claim bonuses that award generous amounts of free virtual currency with minimal wagering requirements.
Check out our list of the best sweepstakes casinos and use our links to register quickly and safely.