Blackjack is one of the most popular casino games worldwide, known for its simple rules and fast-paced gameplay. If you’re learning how to play, one of the first things to understand is how cards are valued – especially the picture cards, also called face cards.
So what are the values of picture cards in blackjack? In short, all face cards – kings, queens, and jacks – are worth 10 points each. This makes them some of the most valuable cards in the game, often helping players build strong hands quickly.
In this guide, we’ll explain the role of picture cards in blackjack, how they interact with other cards, and why they’re key to basic strategy.
Understanding Blackjack Card Values
In blackjack, the goal is to get a hand total as close to 21 as possible without going over. Each card has a specific point value:
| Card Type | Value |
| Number Cards (2–10) | Face value |
| Face Cards (J, Q, K) | 10 points |
| Ace | 1 or 11 points |
This means kings, queens, and jacks all carry the same value of 10 points, regardless of their suit.
Why Are Picture Cards Worth 10 Points?
The value of face cards dates back to the origins of blackjack and its European predecessor, vingt-et-un (twenty-one). Assigning 10 points to picture cards simplifies scoring and balances the deck:
- Each deck has 16 face cards (4 kings, 4 queens, 4 jacks, across 4 suits).
- Combined with the four 10 cards, this means 30.7% of a deck consists of cards worth 10 points.
This high proportion of 10-value cards influences gameplay decisions and is central to blackjack strategy.
Picture Cards and Aces: Building a Blackjack
A “blackjack” (also called a natural 21) is achieved when your first two cards are an ace and a 10-point card. This includes:
- Ace + King
- Ace + Queen
- Ace + Jack
- Ace + 10
This hand automatically wins unless the dealer also has a blackjack, resulting in a push.
Examples of Picture Card Hands
Example 1: King + 7
Your hand total: 17 (King = 10, 7 = 7)
Example 2: Jack + 5 + 6
Your hand total: 21 (Jack = 10, 5 + 6 = 11)
Example 3: Queen + Ace
Blackjack! Total = 21 (Queen = 10, Ace = 11)
Strategy Considerations for Picture Cards
Because picture cards have a fixed value, they simplify certain decisions but also require awareness of the dealer’s upcard.
When to Stand
- Holding a picture card with a 7, 8, or 9 (total 17–19) is usually strong enough to stand.
When to Split
- Two face cards (like King-King) add up to 20, which is already a strong hand. Splitting is not advised.
When to Double Down
- If you have a total of 11 (like 6-5) and know 10-value cards are common in the deck, doubling down can be a smart move.
Picture Cards in Multi-Deck and Single-Deck Games
In older single-deck blackjack games, some players believed tracking the number of 10-point cards could give them an advantage. However, in modern casino environments, card counting is not a recommended or practical strategy for several reasons:
- Multiple Decks in Play: Most online and live blackjack games now use six or more decks, which are shuffled frequently, making it impossible to track specific cards effectively.
- Automatic Shuffling Machines: Continuous shuffling ensures the deck order changes after each round, removing any chance to count remaining cards.
- Casino Rules: Many casinos prohibit card counting, and online platforms have built-in systems to prevent it.
- Fair Play Standards: Licensed sites use regulated software that randomises each deal, ensuring fair and unpredictable outcomes for all players.
As a result, players should focus on understanding basic blackjack strategy rather than attempting card counting techniques that are not suitable for online or live dealer games.
At 7bet, our live blackjack tables use multiple decks, ensuring a fair and unpredictable game every time.
Do Picture Cards Have Different Values in Variants?
In traditional blackjack, all face cards are worth 10 points. However, some variants introduce slight differences:
- Spanish 21: Face cards still worth 10, but 10 cards are removed from the deck.
- Pontoon: Same face card values but uses different terminology.
In any version offered at 7bet, face cards consistently hold their standard 10-point value.
Playing Blackjack Online
When playing blackjack online or at a live dealer table, the software automatically calculates your hand total. However, knowing that picture cards are worth 10 points helps you anticipate your options and understand the decisions being presented.
Explore a range of blackjack games and other table classics at the 7bet homepage or dive into immersive live dealer action for a more authentic experience.
Key Takeaways
- All picture cards (kings, queens, and jacks) are worth 10 points in blackjack.
- Picture cards, combined with aces, create a natural 21 (blackjack).
- With 30% of a deck made up of 10-value cards, they heavily influence strategy.
- Face cards hold the same value across all blackjack variants.
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