Mike,

I'm slightly handicapped when it comes to harvesting cards, as I am not quite 5' 8". The taller guys simply patrol the rows, usually picking up cards that have been removed from the slots and placed atop the machines. Of course, sometimes they are between machines or in the coin trays. Anyhow, sometimes I sit down at a machine as if contemplating playing that machine. When I leave that machine the card leaves with me. I never pull one from the card slot and leave with it right away. Someone may be back for it.

If you're in a casino that is touchy about the cards you can pick up the cards and head to the slot club or cage as if you are going to conduct some business there. There are usually boxes in one of those locations in which to place lost cards. You can always think of some question to ask at the club, e.g., what is the rate of coin imput for points. Just try to look innocent.

I have never been to a casino that charges for card replacement, however, I have heard that there are some that do.

Kerry