Signaling Aces & 7s in Canasta
Because Natural Aces and Natural 7s Canastas are worth 2,500 points (and cost –2,500 if incomplete), partners must manage these cards carefully. The shared objective is simple:
Block opponents by holding two Aces and two 7s between the partnership — while avoiding holding too many yourself.
To coordinate this, players use Signaling.
How signaling works
The main Signal is straightforward:
Discarding an Ace or a 7 usually means: “I still have at least a pair.”
This tells your partner:
- You’re the one keeping the pair
- They can safely discard theirs
- The team has the rank covered
The first partner to Signal becomes the designated holder of that rank.
When Picking the Pack Changes the Keeper
Sometimes picking up the pack gives a player extra Aces or 7s.
Example
- Partner A has Signaled a pair of 7s.
- Partner B picks a pack with four 7s.
- After waiting one turn (since they can’t discard a 7 immediately), Partner B should discard a 7.
This updates the Signal:
Partner B is now the keeper, and Partner A may discard freely.
Never Mislead Your Partner
If your hand is 4 4 – 6 6 – 7, discarding the 7 would incorrectly Signal you have a pair of 7s.
This may cause your partner to throw theirs away — potentially losing the block and giving up a 2,500-point swing.
Even if it breaks a pair, discarding a 4 or 6 is safer than giving the wrong Signal.
In Short
- Two Aces and two 7s across the partnership block opponents.
- Discarding one Signals a pair.
- The first to Signal holds the pair.
- Picking the pack can change who the keeper is.
- Honest, consistent Signals prevent costly mistakes.
Mastering these Signals keeps your team aligned and protects you from huge point losses!