 3 contestants compete to solve a mystery puzzle (a person, phrase, thing, etc.). One at a time, each contestant spins a large wheel (containing dollar amounts and other spaces) and fill in the spaces to help them solve the puzzle. Contestants were always in danger of losing what they had accumulated in that round by landing on a "bankrupt space" (all other winnings were considered "safe") or guessing an incorrect letter and another player then solving the puzzle. The contestant solving the puzzle wins the cash in front of him/her. Originally, contestants used their winnings to shop for prizes contained on stage (cars, trips, furniture, furs, etc.), or they could place it "on account" and use those winnings later on the condition they won a subsequent round. Later (1987 on the syndicated series & 1989 on the daytime show), winning contestants won cash. The day s top scorer was champion and played a bonus round for a luxury prize or $25,000. Until 1998, champions could compete for up to 3-day wins or until defeated.