Part III: Business & Regulation · Gambling Mathematics & Probability

67. Edge Sorting

Advantage Play

Edge sorting is an advantage play technique in which a player exploits subtle, unintentional manufacturing asymmetries on the backs of playing cards to determine the value of face-down cards. Some card backs have slightly different patterns on the long edges that distinguish high-value cards (typically cards with more ink on the face, like 7s, 8s, and 9s) from low-value cards. By persuading the dealer to rotate certain cards during play (often by claiming superstition), the player can subsequently identify valuable cards by their orientation. Edge sorting was famously used by poker player Phil Ivey to win approximately $20 million from Crockfords Casino (London) and Borgata (Atlantic City), leading to high-profile legal battles. Casinos prevent edge sorting by using cards with perfectly symmetrical backs, replacing cards frequently, and refusing player requests to rotate cards.

In practice

The Phil Ivey edge sorting case resulted in courts ruling that edge sorting constitutes cheating in some jurisdictions, while other courts have disagreed. Edge sorting is most effective in games where knowing specific card values provides significant advantage, particularly baccarat (where knowing the first card dealt is worth approximately 6-7%). The technique requires certain brands of cards with detectable manufacturing inconsistencies.

One entry from the Casino Industry Glossary — 1,157 terms written for surveillance, compliance and operations professionals rather than for players. Definitions describe industry usage; where a term carries a regulatory meaning, verify against the instrument that governs your jurisdiction.