Carrom is a popular indoor board game that has been played for generations. It is a game of skill and strategy that requires precision in striking and pocketing coins. Whether played for fun with family and friends or in professional tournaments, carrom has a unique appeal that keeps players engaged. The game is simple to understand but requires practice to master. While many focus on techniques and strategies, understanding the basic components of the game, especially the carrom board coins, is equally important.
The carrom coins are small, circular pieces that are an essential part of the game. Each coin has a specific role and point value, influencing the game's overall outcome. From the standard black and white coins to the special red coin, every piece on the board serves a purpose. Knowing the correct carrom board coins count and their significance helps players improve their approach to the game. In this blog, we will discuss how many coins are used in carrom, what is included in a carrom board set, and the importance of each coin in gameplay.
How Many Coins Are Used in a Carrom Board Game?
A standard game of carrom is played using 19 coins, which are divided into three different types: white coins, black coins, and the red queen. Each type of coin has a specific role in the game and contributes to the scoring system. Below is a detailed breakdown of the carrom board coin count, their significance, and the rules associated with them.
Total Number of Coins in a Carrom Board Game
The game is played with a fixed set of 19 coins, which includes nine white coins, nine black coins, and one red coin known as the queen. These coins remain the same in both professional and casual games. The two competing players or teams are assigned either the white or black coins, and they must pocket all their assigned coins before the opponent. The red coin holds special value and requires strategic play to secure.
White Coins
The white carrom coins are assigned to one of the players or teams, and their objective is to pocket all nine white coins before the opponent pockets all the black ones. The player assigned the white coins must strike and pocket only their own coins. Pocketing an opponent’s coin by mistake is considered a foul. If a player pockets the queen, they must pocket a white coin immediately after to cover it. White coins are worth one point each in the standard carrom board coins points system.
Black Coins
The black carrom coins function the same way as white ones but are assigned to the opponent. The player using black coins must try to pocket all nine coins before their opponent finishes pocketing the white ones. The player assigned black coins must only aim for black coins while striking. Pocketing an opponent’s coin by mistake results in a foul. The queen can only be covered by pocketing a black coin if the player is assigned black. Each black coin is worth one point in the carrom board coins points system.
The Red Coin (Queen)
The red coin, also known as the queen, is the most valuable coin in the game and comes with special rules. According to carrom red coin rules, the queen must be covered by pocketing one of the player’s own coins immediately after. If the queen is pocketed but not covered in the next strike, it is returned to the board. Successfully pocketing and covering the queen gives the player an additional three points in most variations of carrom.
What Is Included in a Carrom Set?
A complete carrom board coins set includes everything needed to play the game smoothly. Apart from the carrom coins, a standard set comes with essential accessories to ensure proper gameplay. Below is a breakdown of the components included in a carrom board set and their significance.
Carrom Board
The main component of the game is the carrom board, which serves as the playing surface. It is a square wooden board with a smooth surface to allow the coins to glide easily. The board features four corner pockets where the coins need to be pocketed during the game. The standard carrom board size for professional matches is 29 inches x 29 inches for the playing area, while smaller sizes are available for casual play.
Carrom Coins
A carrom set includes a complete carrom board coin set, which consists of nine white carrom men, nine black carrom men, and one red queen. These gotis are made of wood, acrylic, or plastic and are designed to slide smoothly across the board. The carrom coin size is typically between 3 to 3.2 cm in diameter, ensuring uniformity in play.
Striker
The carrom striker is a slightly larger and heavier disc used to strike the carrom coins. It is essential for aiming and pocketing the coins effectively. Players use the striker to hit the coins with precision, following the carrom red coin rules and other gameplay regulations.
Carrom Powder
To maintain the smoothness of the playing surface, carrom powder is used. It reduces friction between the board and the coins, allowing for effortless movement. Special boric powder is commonly used for better performance.
Additional Accessories
Some carrom sets may also include a rulebook for reference, a stand to elevate the board, or a carrying case for storage and transport. These additions enhance the playing experience, ensuring players have everything they need for a proper match.
FAQs
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How Many Coins Are Used in a Carrom Game?
A standard game of carrom is played with 19 coins, which include nine white coins, nine black coins, and one red queen.
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What Is the Value of Each Carrom Board Coin?
In most versions of carrom, both white and black coins carry one point each, while the red coin (queen) is worth three points if properly covered after pocketing.
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What Happens If the Queen Is Pocketed but Not Covered?
According to carrom red coin rules, if a player pockets the queen but fails to cover it by pocketing one of their own coins immediately after, the queen is returned to the board.
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What Is the Standard Carrom Coin Size?
The carrom coin size is typically between 3 cm to 3.2 cm in diameter, ensuring consistent gameplay.
Conclusion
A standard carrom board game is played with 19 coins, including nine white, nine black, and one red queen. Each type of carrom coin has a specific role, and players must follow the rules while pocketing them. The red queen holds special importance, as per carrom red coin rules, and must be covered immediately after being pocketed.
In addition to the coins, a carrom board set includes a striker, board, and carrom powder for smooth gameplay. The game follows a structured carrom coin points system, where white and black coins are worth one point each, while the red queen carries three points. Knowing the carrom coin count and scoring system helps players refine their strategy and enjoy the game.
