Three-card monte

Three-card Monte

Three-card Monte being played in Warsaw, 1944

Three-card Monte, also known as Find the Lady or the Three-card Trick, is a confidence game in which the victim, or "mark," is tricked into betting a sum of money on the assumption that they can find the "money card" among three face-down playing cards. It is a classic example of a "short con" in which the mark is led to believe they can win money by correctly identifying the location of a specific card after the cards have been shuffled.

History

The origins of Three-card Monte can be traced back to the 15th century, with similar games being played in Europe. The game gained popularity in the 19th century, particularly in the United States, where it was often played on the streets and at fairs. The game is closely related to the shell game, which uses three shells and a pea instead of cards.

Gameplay

The game is deceptively simple. The dealer places three cards face down on a table, usually a folding table or a cardboard box. One of these cards is the "money card," typically a queen, while the other two are non-matching cards, often jacks or aces. The dealer then shuffles the cards around quickly, using sleight of hand to ensure that the mark cannot follow the money card.

The mark is invited to bet on which card is the money card. The dealer may use various techniques to mislead the mark, such as false shuffles, quick hand movements, and verbal distractions. Often, accomplices known as "shills" are used to encourage the mark to bet by pretending to win money themselves.

Techniques

Three-card Monte game in Berlin

The success of the Three-card Monte relies heavily on the dealer's skill in sleight of hand and misdirection. Common techniques include the "throw," where the dealer appears to place the money card in a specific position but actually moves it elsewhere, and the "hype," where the dealer uses verbal cues to mislead the mark.

Another technique is the "bent corner," where the dealer subtly bends the corner of the money card to make it appear distinguishable, only to switch it with another card at the last moment. The dealer's accomplices play a crucial role in creating an illusion of fairness and encouraging the mark to bet.

Legal Status

Three-card Monte is illegal in many jurisdictions due to its fraudulent nature. Law enforcement agencies often target street games, as they are typically used to swindle unsuspecting tourists and passersby. Despite its illegality, the game continues to be played in various forms around the world.

Cultural References

Three-card Monte has been featured in numerous films, books, and television shows, often as a symbol of deception and trickery. It is frequently used as a plot device to illustrate the gullibility of characters or to demonstrate the cunning of con artists.

Related Pages

• Shell game
• Confidence trick
• Sleight of hand

The game of Monte in the streets of Mexico, 1828

See Also

• Card sharp
• Street performance
• Gambling