Poker first began in the American South in the early 19th century, with players using gold nuggets, dust, and coins as stakes. These early games were often played in saloons or on riverboats, where the currency was unpredictable, adding excitement but also confusion. As the game gained popularity, saloons introduced poker chips made of materials like clay and ivory, creating a standardized currency that streamlined the betting process and helped poker become the organized game we know today.
Initially played with a 20-card deck, poker expanded to a 52-card deck as more players wanted to join in. This change allowed for larger, more complex games, shaping poker into the strategic and thrilling game enjoyed by many today.
