Dead Man's Hand

The Dead Man's Hand is a term used to describe a specific poker hand: a two-pair of black aces and black eights. This hand is associated with a story from the Old West, where a famous gunfighter, Wild Bill Hickok, was allegedly holding this hand when he was shot dead.

Why is it Called Dead Man's Hand?

The Dead Man's Hand is more of a piece of poker lore than a term used in actual gameplay. The legend goes that Wild Bill Hickok, a folk hero of the American Old West, was playing poker when he was shot in the back of the head by Jack McCall. When Hickok's hand was revealed, it was a two-pair of black aces and black eights. Hence, this combination is often referred to as the Dead Man's Hand.

The Dead Man's Hand is not a term used to describe a particular strategy or move in poker, like a bluff or a check-raise. Instead, it's part of the history and folklore of the game, adding to poker's rich tapestry of stories and characters.

Significance of the Dead Man's Hand

The Dead Man's Hand is significant because of its connection to Wild Bill Hickok and the mythology of the Old West. Its association with Hickok's death gives the hand a sense of foreboding and superstition. Some players might even consider it bad luck to be dealt this specific hand.

However, in terms of poker strategy, there is nothing inherently special or unique about the Dead Man's Hand. It's a two-pair hand, which is relatively strong in a game of poker, but it's certainly not unbeatable.

Examples of Dead Man's Hand

In a game of Texas Hold'em, you're dealt an ace of clubs and an eight of clubs. The flop comes out and reveals the ace of spades, eight of spades, and a random card. You now hold the Dead Man's Hand - a two-pair of black aces and black eights.

• "I was dealt the Dead Man's Hand, just like Wild Bill Hickok."
• "My opponent revealed his hand and to my surprise, it was the Dead Man's Hand."
• "I won the pot with the Dead Man's Hand, despite its unlucky reputation."