If you find a table where you can bet your $1 on one even money bet, and a $1 coupon on an offseting bet, you won't lose money.

If you lose your dollar bet, you get it back on the coupon and break even.

If you win the dollar bet, you win $1 and lose the coupon (but no money).

The math does work out, if they will let you play this way. Works best if your coupon or f-p chip stays in action till you lose it. Some coupons are 'one bet only' and are less desirable. You can also get a partner to bet the other half of the bet with coupons or freeplays. Best to try on busy roulette tables where chip harvesting is keeping the dealer busy [g].