A card shuffling device includes a top surface, a card receiving area for
receiving an initial set of playing cards, a randomizing system for
randomizing the initial set of playing cards, a collection surface in a
card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards, the
collection surface receiving cards positioned so that all cards collected
are below the top surface of the device, and an elevator for raising the
collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated
above the top surface of the device. An automatic card shuffler includes
a microprocessor with memory, an infeed compartment for receiving cards
to be randomized, a card moving mechanism for moving cards individually
from the infeed compartment into a card mixing compartment, a card mixing
compartment comprising a plurality of substantially vertical supports, an
opening for the passage of cards from the infeed compartment, a moveable
lower support surface, at least one stationary gripping arm, a lower edge
proximate the opening, the gripping arm capable of suspending cards above
the opening, and an elevator for raising and lowering the moveable
support surface. A position of the elevator is randomly selected and the
support surface is moved to the selected position, and after the gripping
arm grasps at least one side of the cards, the elevator lowers, creating
a space beneath the gripping arm, wherein a card is moved from the infeed
compartment into the space, thereby randomizing the cards. A method of
randomizing a group of cards utilizing the apparatus is also disclosed.