Page "Numbers game" Paragraph 2

By the early 20th century, the game was associated with poor communities, and could be played for as little as $ 0. 01.

One of the game's attractions to low income and working class bettors was the ability to bet small amounts of money.

Also, unlike state lotteries, bookies could extend credit to the bettor.

In addition, policy winners could avoid paying income tax.

Different policy banks would offer different rates, though a payoff of 600 to 1 was typical.

Since the odds of winning were 1, 000: 1, the expected profit for racketeers was enormous.