California

1-cent slot machine bet pays off with big win at Sacramento-area casino

By Don Sweeney

January 20, 2026 11:46 AM

A bet on a 1-cent slot machine paid off handsomely for a visitor at Red Hawk Casino in Northern California, casino officials said.

The player won a progressive $21,017 jackpot on the Lion Link: Wealth of the Dragon slot machine.

The gambler bet $1.50 on the spin.

“Moments like this are why every spin counts,” the casino said.

Red Hawk Casino, at 1 Red Hawk Parkway in Placerville, is about 40 miles east of downtown Sacramento.

Many people can gamble or play games of chance without harm. However, for some, gambling is an addiction that can ruin lives and families.

If you or a loved one shows signs of gambling addiction, you can seek help by calling the national gambling hotline at 1-800-522-4700 or visiting the National Council on Problem Gambling website.

This story was originally published January 20, 2026 at 11:46 AM with the headline "1-cent slot machine bet pays off with big win at Sacramento-area casino."

Don Sweeney

The Sacramento Bee

Don Sweeney has been a newspaper reporter and editor in California for more than 35 years. He is a service reporter based at The Sacramento Bee.