Gold Coins vs. Sweeps Coins in Sweepstakes Casinos: What’s the Difference?

By Kate Richardson • August 24, 2026

animated-gold-coins-left-side-sweeps-purple-coins-right-side

Switching from real money online casinos to the new, modern, and trendy sweepstakes casinos can be confusing, and even more so for new players. This confusion starts from the moment most players notice that there are two currencies on the platforms/site.

If you enjoy gambling and having fun with online casino games but you're confused about the difference between Gold coins and Sweeps Coins, you're not alone, and today, we'll help you understand both coins in Sweepstakes casinos and the difference between them.

What are Casino Coins and Why Do They Exist?

The first thing to consider when we ask ourselves what these casino coins are is that they have different names depending on the platform we play on.

This virtual currency system aims to overcome the legal barriers that exist in the U.S based on strict regulations for casinos that use real money for betting and prizes. Therefore, the idea is to give users an online entertainment option, with the same slots, casino tables, roulette, and more, but without breaking any laws.

Beyond the names of the coins, there are two types: Gold Coins and Sweeps Coins. Let's look at each of them and their details in the next section.

Types of Coins Used in Sweepstakes Casinos

Returning to the question of what casino lottery coins are, we could define them as the payment method used to place bets in the games. However, the logic differs slightly depending on the type of virtual currency used, which can be:

Gold Coins

It is with Gold Coins that we can play slots, blackjack, roulette, poker, or any other game that the casino offers with raffles.

It's important to note that these coins have no real-world value; they are intended solely for use in the games and cannot be exchanged for cash. However, you can purchase Gold Coin packs when you run out and want to continue playing. These packs can be used to obtain bonuses and promotions available at the casino.

It is also important to know that branded gold coins are still gold coins. Many sweepstakes casinos are known to rebrand their gold coins to match their platform theme, but overall its function remains the same.

Sweeps Coins

Unlike the previous ones, Sweeps Coins cannot be bought, but their relevance lies in the fact that they can be exchanged for money and prizes.

Similarly, this type of currency can be used to bet on slot machines and casino tables. Slots can even pay out in Sweeps Coins.

What are the Key Differences Between Gold Coins and Sweepstakes Coins?

The key differences between gold coins and sweeps coins at sweepstakes casinos are summarized below:

  • Gold coins are used to play games for entertainment, while sweeps coins are for playing games for a chance to redeem real prizes.
  • Players can win real money or prizes with gold coins, but can’t while playing with sweep coins.
  • Players can purchase gold coins but can’t purchase sweep coins.

So Which Coin Can I Withdraw as Real Money?

While both can be used to play the same games, both have clear uses, as we have summarized above. Only sweep coins have real-world value, meaning you can redeem them as a voucher, gift card, cash, or any other option the online casino offers.

How to Get Sweep Coins at Sweepstakes Casinos?

Now that you have an idea of ​​what these sweepstakes coins are, it's time to learn how to acquire them. We have a few options for doing so.

When you register at the casino with sweepstakes, they regularly give you Gold Coin packages and some Sweeps Coins as a welcome bonus.

Since Gold Coins can be purchased, the value of coin packs ranges from $0.99 to $199 or more, depending on the sweepstakes casinos. Also, some Gold Coins package purchases come with Sweeps Coins included.

If you're enrolled in the loyalty program, you'll likely be rewarded with Sweeps Coins.

Many casinos with sweepstakes give away one Sweeps Coin daily, and while it's not much, if you log in every day, you can accumulate a significant amount over time. Some also ask you to play some games to get more sweep coins.

As you can see, there are many ways to get coins. What you should look for is a casino with sweep coins that offers all these options and even more.

Conclusion

It is important to note that all sweepstakes casinos operating legally in the United States will require you to complete Know Your Customer (KYC) before you can be able to get your first redemption request. Also, since there is a strict no purchase necessary rule, they tell you upfront about the rules surrounding sweepstakes coins and what you should expect.

We have briefly explained what these sweepstakes virtual currencies are, their use cases, and their differences. Which casino game would you be looking to try next? Thanks for reading!

← Back to Blog

Related Articles