Slot machines have been around for the better part of a century. What started as a simple device with a pull lever has evolved into something that can be played with just one click from anywhere around the world. The symbols, however, have remained largely the same and for good reason. 

Whether you are playing at a local brick-and-mortar casino or prefer to play at online casinos, there is a good chance that you have played at least one slot machine before. The concept is simple: push the button or pull the level and hope to match up the symbols.

Have you taken a moment to think about what those symbols mean and where they came from? The history behind slot machines is comprehensive and interesting, as is the history of the symbols they display.

Most Common Slot Machine Symbols

Though there are some variations, most in-person and online slots feature many of the same symbols. Over the long history of slot machines, there have been a few that stand the test of time.

Bars. The bar symbol is one of the original slot machine symbols. It originates from early slot designs and often appears as single, double, or triple bars.

Fruits. Perhaps the most recognizable symbol related to slot machines, fruit icons have a history like no other. Going back to the original days, it is common to see watermelons, grapes, oranges, cherries, lemons, and other classic fruits.

Bells. Liberty Bell, one of the oldest slot machines, is one of the first to use bells. Generally, bells represent a middle-of-the-road payout while also making a subtle nod to the history of slot machines.

Stars. Stars have been consistently part of slots for a long time. They can be used as standard symbols but may also represent higher payouts or even wilds.

Sevens. In gambling culture, the number 7 is a lucky number. As a result, the number 7 is regularly featured in slots. Though it might be different colors, landing different combinations will lead to a win of different sizes.

Playing cards. It only stands to reason that slots would be closely linked to playing cards. In video slots, playing cards, especially face cards like the King, Queen, Jack, and Ace, are the most popular.

Jewels. Gems, jewels, diamonds, and other shiny symbols have become commonplace in modern slots. They convey themes of wealth, luxury, and hunting for treasure.

The Meaning Behind Each Slot Machine Symbol

Believe it or not, the symbols you see on a slot machine aren’t there by random. They typically have some kind of significance, especially if the slot has a theme based around a show, movie, book, or other form of entertainment. Here is what some of the most common symbols mean.

Sevens. Sevens are considered lucky. In slots, sevens typically offer bigger payouts because of various cultural ideals.

Bars. Bars used to be a symbol of gum packets but have now become synonymous with slots. Single, double, and triple bars offer different payout levels.

Fruits. These colorful symbols cover all eras of slot machines. More often than not, cherries pay out even when only one or two show up, but it depends on the game.

Wilds and Scatters. These are mostly found in video slots, representing wild card symbols. They can be used in place of other symbols to create a winning combo while scatters provide bonus rounds or free spins.

Final Thoughts

Though they may not register as much at first glance, there is more behind those symbols than most realize. Rich with history, each symbol tells a story about the past of slot machines and will be an integral part of the future as well.