A "natural" blackjack payout occurs when a player is dealt an ace and a ten-value card (10, Jack, Queen, or King) as their initial two cards, resulting in a total of 21. This is considered the best possible hand in blackjack. The standard payout for a natural blackjack is typically 3 to 2, meaning that if a player bets $10, they would win $15 in addition to their original bet, resulting in a total return of $25. Some casinos may offer different payout ratios, such as 6 to 5, which can be less favorable for players. The presence of a natural blackjack not only provides a higher potential payout but also influences gameplay, as players are often more cautious when the dealer has a visible ace, knowing that the stakes are higher if both player and dealer achieve a natural.