Two-up: Your guide to the Aussie gambling game that's legal once a year
If you happen to be in Australia on Anzac Day, don't be intimidated by the raucous noises coming from almost every pub.
There's sure to be a round of two-up taking place inside. A gambling game only legally allowed to be played in public on April 25, a day of remembrance for all those who served in war, two-up is a favourite of locals who head to veteran parades in the morning and then to the pub in the afternoon. An odd combination, sure, but it is what it is.
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If you're a tourist or have just never had the opportunity to have a go before, don't worry, we've got your back. Make sure you study up before you throw your money in the ring.
When did it start?
Two-up's actual origins are unknown, but the game is thought to have spread in Australia's goldfields around the 1850s, according to ABC News.
It quickly gained popularity among those serving in World War I, with diggers -- the Aussie word for soldiers -- returning to continue playing the game at home, albeit illegally. It gradually became a government-sanctioned part of Anzac Day celebrations, played by ex-servicemen and civilians alike.
It's illegal if the venue takes any profit from the game or if it charges an entry fee though, so keep that in mind. And, of course, you'll need to be over 18, kid.
How do you play it?
Think of two-up as a slightly more complex version of heads or tails.
Two coins are placed tails up on a flat board called a "kip" or a paddle, while those eager to bet form a ring. The "ring-keeper" calls "come in spinner" to signal the coins are to be tossed into the air by another person, who is called the "spinner."
To win, both coins need to land on heads, or both on tails. One coin on heads and one coin on tails -- called "odds" or "one them" -- means there is a replay and the coins are tossed again. Same if the coins fall outside the ring.
So, what if you want to gamble? You'll need to find another person around the ring who will bet with you.
It's as simple as announcing whether you're betting on heads or tails, and how much cash you're willing to put up. The person you're betting against needs to bet the same amount as you, but on the opposite result.
Guess heads or tails correctly, and you take the other person's money. Seems simple enough, but it's an afternoon's worth of amusement if played correctly. Make sure to check up on your venue's rules first, to keep everyone happy.
Where can I play it?
Many pubs will advertise they've got the "biggest" two-up game in the business, but in reality, most pubs on Anzac Day will have a game organised, as well as Returned Services League clubs and sporting venues around the country.
Bigger games are arguably better, thanks to the opportunity for people watching. If you like drunk antics, that is.
Just remember to play responsibly. It is gambling after all, and losing a whole lot of money ain't fun.
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