What Do the Cards Equal in Blackjack?

In blackjack, the cards are worth their face value, with the exception of the ace, which can count as either 1 or 11. The jack, queen and king are each worth 10.

The suits of the cards have no meaning in blackjack.

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The value of the cards is important to understand because it will dictate whether the dealer hits or stands. If the dealer has a hand totaling 16 or less, he must hit.

PRO TIP:In Blackjack, the cards are each worth their numeric face value. Aces are either 1 or 11, depending on what best suits the player’s hand. Face cards (Jack, Queen and King) are each worth 10 points.

If the dealer has a hand totaling 17 or more, he must stand.

Knowing the value of the cards will also help you make decisions about taking insurance or splitting pairs. Insurance is a side bet that pays 2-1 if the dealer has a blackjack.

It should only be taken if you have a good feeling that the dealer has a blackjack. Splitting pairs is only advised if you are dealt two cards of equal value and the dealer is showing a card that is likely to result in a tie.