Pollard Banknote Limited (“Pollard Banknote”; TSX: PBL) congratulates the Maryland Lottery (or “the Lottery”) on the remarkable success of 50 Years!, its 50th anniversary scratch-off ticket and its first at the $50 price point. The milestone game has achieved sales of more than $29 million since its launch on February 20, 2023.
The game’s success is partly attributable to its historic cash prizes and striking design. 50 Years! launched with more than 1.3 million prizes, including three $5 million top prizes—the largest scratch-off prizes the Lottery has ever offered. The 4” x 11” game was designed in-house by Pollard Banknote’s Creative Services team and features dazzling artwork that leverages Pollard Banknote’s Spectrum Scratch FX® print innovation to its fullest.
The commemorative game is also part of the Lottery’s 50th Anniversary Cash Bash second-chance promotion, which offers player loyalty program members one entry for every $50 worth of eligible tickets entered into their accounts. Five drawings will be held over the next several months to award 100 cash prizes, and the promotion culminates in September with a celebratory event at the Maryland State Fair, where one second-chance finalist could win up to $5 million.
“Planning for our 50th anniversary generated great creative energy from our product development and sales teams, and it was the perfect occasion to launch our first $50 ticket,” said Maryland Lottery and Gaming Director John Martin. “We knew we wanted this ticket to be a standout and serve as a centerpiece of our anniversary celebration, and Pollard Banknote delivered that for us—the artwork captures the excitement we wanted to convey.”
Martin added that sales have been exceptional, crediting a pre-launch strategy that emphasized a wide initial distribution and messaging directed to retailers and players. The Lottery also sought input from retailers regarding the pack size for 50 Years!, eventually deciding on 20 tickets per pack.
“It was truly a collaborative effort among our product development and sales staff, our retailers, and Pollard Banknote, and we’re thrilled that players have embraced this special game,” Martin said.
“As the Maryland Lottery’s primary scratch-off ticket supplier since 2006, Pollard Banknote is honored to help the Lottery celebrate its golden anniversary with its first $50 game,” said Travis Priest, Director, Sales & Marketing, Pollard Banknote. “Our partnership over the years has resulted in a strong and diversified game portfolio, and 50 Years! exemplifies the Lottery’s commitment to providing its players with entertaining scratch-off games. The Maryland Lottery’s enduring trust in Pollard Banknote is sincerely appreciated, and we offer our best wishes for its continued success.”