The Enigma of “00000”: The King’s Number
All lottery numbers hold the same probability of winning the Christmas Jackpot, yet not all evoke the same intrigue or allure. Among the most enigmatic is “00000,” a number shrouded in mysteries and myths that resurface each holiday season. Questions arise every December: Does it actually exist? Can it be purchased? Most intriguingly, is it indeed the number that State Lotteries and Betting reserves for the Royal House?
The Allure of “The King’s Number”
Many lottery enthusiasts refer to “00000” as “The King’s Number.” This nickname has led to widespread speculation, although, as historical records indicate, there is no factual basis for this claim.
Is “00000” Played?
Absolutely! In the Christmas raffle, the lottery features 100,000 different numbers ranging from 00000 to 99,999, both included. This year, “00000” was available for purchase in several locations across Spain, including Cádiz, Las Palmas, and Valencia.
Yet, opinions on this number vary widely. Some see it as an ‘ugly’ combination with low odds of winning, while others invest their twenty euros confidently, betting on its potential for glory.
Has “00000” Ever Won?
While many have yet to experience “00000” as a winning ticket in significant draws, it has made more than one person cheerful during the holidays. For instance, in 2014, it yielded a smaller prize of 120 euros. In that same year, a lottery administration sold a whopping 160 winning tickets, ultimately providing clients with an impressive 19,200 euros.
Interestingly, back in 1828, a different number—00523—scored a major win. Contrary to superstition, the lottery does not discriminate between “low” or “high” numbers; luck is blind when it comes to winning combinations.
The Urban Legend of Royal Connection
One of the most intriguing myths surrounding “00000” is its supposed connection to the Royal House, where it is rumored to be set aside as a special gift. However, this claim has been thoroughly debunked. For example, the State Lotteries has publicly stated that no tickets with the number “00000” are reserved for the king, a sentiment echoed by multiple reliable sources.
Moreover, “00000” tickets are widely available and accessible at various lottery outlets. In fact, in 2014, a winner of the modest prize openly stated that she chose this number believing it to be associated with royal favor.
The Curiosity Factor: How Would It Be Sung?
Another fun speculation revolves around how the winning number “00000” would be sung during the live draw. Would the children of San Ildefonso hum “zero thousand zero hundred zero zero”? Most reports suggest that the number would simply be announced as “zero,” although nerves may play tricks on the presenters during the excitement of the draw.
Final Thoughts
Although “00000” carries a weight of legend and intrigue, it remains just another number in the lottery, subject to the same rules of chance as its counterparts. Whether embraced as a good-luck charm or viewed as an unlucky choice, its story continues to captivate players every festive season.
Images by SELAE 1 and Royal House.