All the essential details about WSOP Bracelets Revealed
The World Series of Poker (WSOP) has been awarding unique and coveted bracelets to its winners since 1976, marking a significant shift from the previous awards of silver cups, corny trophies, or sterling plates.
The introduction of gold bracelets was a deliberate effort to elevate the prestige of winning the WSOP, creating a distinct and recognisable symbol of poker excellence. Doyle Brunson, who won the 1976 Main Event, was among the first recipients of a WSOP bracelet, setting the tradition in motion.
The exact manufacturer of these bracelets is not explicitly detailed, but they are custom-crafted pieces designed to be valuable keepsakes for the winners. Historically, these bracelets have been made by companies experienced in creating high-value jewelry and sports trophies.
The value of WSOP bracelets has been growing over the years, with the 2019 Main Event bracelet, crafted by Jostens, being one of the most precious trophies. This bracelet, won by Hossein Ensan, came with a total weight of 40 carats of gemstones and a $10 million first prize.
While the number of WSOP events has been growing every year, making more bracelets available, this has led to some debate about the overall value and prestige attached to these trinkets. The prices of WSOP bracelets vary depending on interest and rarity, with some fetching hundreds of thousands of dollars.
For instance, the 2019 WSOP bracelet won in a $2,500 Limit Omaha event was sold for $50,000 on eBay. On the other hand, the WSOP bracelets awarded in most events are estimated to be worth around $1,500.
The WSOP Circuit, a separate competition from the World Series of Poker, awards rings to its winners. Despite not being as prestigious as the WSOP bracelets, winning a ring or two is still considered an accomplishment. The WSOP Circuit attracts many serious players who play poker for a living.
The value of WSOP bracelets is subjective and varies among individuals beyond their actual market value. In 2010, Peter Eastgate, another Main Event winner, sold his bracelet for $147,500, with the proceeds going to charity. In contrast, TJ Cloutier sold his 2005 Hold'em bracelet for $2,500.
The first WSOP bracelet was worth around $500 in 1976, reflecting the growing prestige and value of these trophies over the years. In 2020, the World Series of Poker took place entirely online, making bracelets even more accessible.
The debate about the value of WSOP bracelets continues on platforms like Reddit, with opinions ranging from their significance as a symbol of poker excellence to their commercialisation. However, one thing is certain: these bracelets have become an iconic part of the WSOP tradition and a coveted prize for poker enthusiasts worldwide.
Blog posts discussing the value of WSOP bracelets reveal the varying opinions among poker enthusiasts. One post on a casino-and-gambling blog argues that the increased availability of WSOP bracelets through the WSOP Circuit may dilute the prestige associated with these casino-games trophies, while another post argues that each WSOP bracelet, whether won in a high-stakes event or a smaller tournament, is a symbol of poker excellence and a worthy prize for any poker champion, just like winning a hand of poker against skilled opponents in a casino.
