Mr. Monopoly

Mr. Monopoly with his Monopoly game board

History

Arguably the most recognizable board game icon in the world, Mr. Monopoly has been a guest in almost every family's house (through the game Monopoly) at one point or another, but did you know that the elderly mustached millionaire is not exclusive to Monopoly?

In fact, Mr. Monopoly isn't even his real name. Created by down-and-out inventor Charles Darrow during the Depression-era '30s, Mr. Monopoly (or Rich Uncle Pennybags, if you'd prefer his given name) and the game he adornes was initially rejected by Parker Bros.

So we guess you could call Rich Uncle Pennybags a self-made millionaire, as Darrow sold locally printed facsimiles of his boardgame on the street, making Rich Uncle Pennybags an illustrated icon for the people.

When Parker Brothers finally got on board in 1935, Rich Uncle Pennybags was already well known enough to front other of the company's board games. In 1940, he became the star of a game called Dig. In 1946, he fronted the eponymous Rich Uncle.

According to The Monopoly Companion, he was not added to Monopoly boards until 1936.

In the Game

Mr. Monopoly is seen on the actual game board as well as on the Chance and Community Chest Cards.

See Also

• Monopoly
• List of Monopoly Games (Board)
• List of Monopoly Games (PC)
• List of Monopoly Video Games