Slot machines have long been a source of entertainment and excitement, but beyond the flashing lights and spinning reels lie fascinating stories behind their iconic symbols. From cherries to bells, bars, and lucky sevens, these designs are more than just decorative, they’re steeped in history, tradition, and cultural significance.
Let us see what these icons mean and their history.
Cherries and Fruits
One of the first things you notice on traditional slot machines is the abundance of colorful fruit symbols like cherries, lemons, oranges, and plums. These weren’t random choices but rather a clever workaround for gambling restrictions in the early 20th century.
When slot machines were introduced, many areas outlawed cash payouts, so manufacturers got creative. They designed machines that dispensed chewing gum or candy instead of money, with the fruit symbols indicating the flavor of the treat you’d win.
For instance, cherries might represent cherry-flavored gum, while lemons stand for lemon-flavored varieties. Over time, these symbols became deeply associated with slot machines, even as cash payouts returned to the gaming scene. Today, fruit-themed slots still pay homage to this quirky chapter of history.
The Liberty Bell
The Liberty Bell is another standout symbol that has its roots in the very origins of slot machines. Created in the late 1800s by Charles Fey, the Liberty Bell slot machine was the first to feature spinning reels with symbols. Along with horseshoes and stars, Fey included an image of the Liberty Bell, symbolizing freedom and good fortune. Hitting three Liberty Bells was the ultimate jackpot, setting the standard for big wins in slot play.
This revolutionary machine’s design paved the way for modern slot gaming, and the Liberty Bell became synonymous with winning. It’s a nod to the country’s history and an enduring emblem of success in slot culture.
The Bar Symbol
The “BAR” symbol might seem mysterious at first glance, but its origin is straightforward. It dates back to the time of fruit slot machines when payouts were in the form of gum. The BAR symbol was based on the logo of the Bell-Fruit Gum Company, which supplied gum for the machines. Originally a rectangle with the company’s logo, it evolved into the bold “BAR” design we recognize today.
Over time, as the fruit symbols remained as visual traditions, the BAR symbol stuck around for its simplicity and strong visual appeal. Whether single, double, or triple BARs, these icons instantly evoke the feeling of classic slots.
Lucky Number Seven
If there’s one symbol that screams “jackpot,” it’s the number seven. This iconic number has long been associated with luck and prosperity across cultures. For gamblers, hitting three sevens on the reels is often the ultimate win, a promise of massive payouts and celebratory cheers.
The number seven’s prominence stems from its historical and religious significance; it’s considered blessed or magical in many traditions. Incorporating it into slot machines was a natural choice to evoke feelings of excitement and fortune. Today, seven continues to be the most recognizable slot symbol, embodying the thrill of chasing big wins.
Horseshoes and Stars
Horseshoes and stars have also played significant roles in traditional slot games. Horseshoes are a symbol of good luck dating back to ancient times, and it was believed that hanging one over a doorway could ward off bad spirits. Adding them to slot machines was a way to connect gameplay with centuries-old superstitions of luck.
Stars, meanwhile, represent aspiration and success. Seeing stars light up the reels often signals that players are moments away from winning a prize. Combining these icons with other symbols further elevated the idea of fortune and chance, staples of the gambling world.
Conclusion
These classic slot icons are more than just illustrations on a screen, they’re a reflection of slot machine history and creativity in overcoming challenges. From fruit-inspired gum payouts to bells and bars rooted in early slot design, these symbols remain timeless reminders of gambling’s origins.
