Over the years, slot machines have continued to rise in popularity. From the creation of the very first Poker machine in 1887, to the famed Liberty Bell invented by Charles Fey between 1887-1895, to electromechanical, video and now online Slots dominating virtual casino floors; understanding where the classic symbols came from and what they mean has never been more important. There are so many themed games available when you play Sky Vegas Slots, for example, that many icons are replaced by images that relate to the theme. Despite this, the majority of reels still pay homage to the classic symbols, or incorporate them into their theme. But where do they come from, and what exactly do they mean? 

Read on to find out more. 

The Liberty Bell

As previously mentioned, the Liberty Bell was created between 1887 and 1895 by Charles Fey, who never patented his idea. This machine is said to have been the first-ever slot machine, and featured three reels and five symbols: hearts, diamonds, spades, horseshoes, and a Liberty Bell. Naturally, the bell symbol had the potential to offer the highest payouts, and the card symbols were reminiscent of the Poker machines that Fey had based his design upon. 

Each of these classic symbols can still be found on many slot machines today, even the latest video Slots at online casinos, particularly the golden bell jackpot and card symbols. 

Lucky 7s

A few years later, the 7 symbol was added to some machines alongside the horseshoe, as both were deemed ‘lucky’ icons – perfect for Slots players.

Fruit machines 

It was Fey’s machine that paved the way for all other slot machines of times gone by, and we imagine for much time to come. Due to this, when games of chance were deemed unlawful in the US, machines were adapted to provide players with the chance to win not cash or prizes, but fruit-flavoured gum. Enter the fruit machine era. 

In the 1950s and ’60s, you could likely find a fruit machine in pubs, shops, post offices, arcades and even at the local chippy. With three reels, five paylines and an array of fruity symbols, spinning in combinations of either; cherries, plums, oranges, lemons and strawberries could win you a flavoured gum in the corresponding flavour. Many modern-day Slots feature these fruits to give them a familiar, retro and classic feel. 

BAR symbol

It was during the fruit machine era that the popular BAR symbol was founded. This was commonly used as the second-highest or mid-tier payout symbol, with a value situated between the 7 and the fruit. The icon is said to have been based on the logo for the Bell-Fruit Gum Company, who may have provided some of the fruity prizes for the machines. As well as looking like the company’s logo, it also looks just like a pack of gum – something you can still spin onto many reels today.

Wild and Scatter symbols

The beloved Wild and Scatter symbols weren’t added to slot machines for many years. It wasn’t until more recent years when technology allowed Slots to advance that bonus symbols could be introduced. Now, you can enjoy gameplay with Wilds, Scatters, free spins, Sticky Wilds, Expanding Wilds, bonus rounds, cascading reels and so much more! But of course, you’ll never be too far away from playing card icons, fruit, or those Lucky 7s. 

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