The Custom Monopoly Board
Hugh Hefner’s custom Monopoly board is a striking centerpiece built into a full-size wooden and metal card table, created to elevate casual gameplay into a signature Mansion experience. At the heart of the table lies an oversized Monopoly board—more than 50% larger than the standard version—set neatly under a pane of protective glass. Though the board retains all the classic properties, spaces, and layout of traditional Monopoly, its sheer scale and meticulous craftsmanship make it wholly unique.
A recessed cutout at the center of the board holds a removable tray for organizing cash and cards during play, while two cork-lined dice trays flank the center on either side, providing a designated surface for smooth, quiet rolls.
Surrounding the play area on all four sides are carved channels built into the tabletop’s frame—each with six neatly sized slots designed to hold stacks of custom-printed Monopoly money for each player. The table’s design reflects both Hefner’s love of games and his attention to elegance and function, turning an iconic board game into a luxurious, immersive experience.
Custom Chance and Community Chest cards were printed to match the board’s scale, and though all seven denominations of Monopoly bills were produced, setup instructions indicate that $1 bills were typically excluded from play. This one-of-a-kind game table wasn't just for show—it was used frequently in the Mansion's legendary game nights, a symbol of Hefner’s belief that leisure and style could go hand in hand.
