It is a Minhag Yisroel to play draidel (with money) on Chanukah, to commemorate the draidel game played by Jews who, despite the decree of the Greeks were learning Torah, and when caught, made believe that they were simply gathered to play a game. {Avnei Nezer, Bnei Yissaschar, Piskei Tshuvos 670:4}
Many gedolim including the Chasam Sofer practiced this minhag. The Klausenberger Rebbe explained that there is no problem of Misachek Bikuvya (gambling) because the draidel is played amongst close family and those playing do not mind losing money to each other. {Sefer Haminhagim L’Chasam Sofer, Piskei Tshuvos 670:4}
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So the Jews actually played dreidel? Or another game?
If they did, they certainly did not have the same letters on the side – unless there was a tremendous “coincidence” under Hashgacha Pratis.
On Chanukah the minhug of Klal Yisroel is to play Kvitlech (??????).