A reproduction of a 52 card deck from about 1750. The initials “HC” on the King of Hearts provide a clue to the unknown artist who made the original printing blocks. The classic style of this deck makes it a good representative of decks used in both Britain and the U.S.A. from the early 18th century up to the late 19th century. Although jokers were not used until the 1800's, we have included our own jokers inspired by the face cards for games that require them.
They are about 3.5 " x 2.25" -the same size as a modern "Bridge deck". (modern Poker decks are slightly wider.) They are printed on plain uncoated card stock for an authentic look, and are blank on the backs and have square corners as was most common for early cards. Printed for us here in Minnesota. See our youtube channel "MacGregor Historic Games" for more info about our period cards
Suitable for re-enactors from Restoration England to the American Civil War. To insure they are usable by a wider range of historical events (and help keep the cost low) we have specifically avoided recreating a period wrapper, or tax stamp. Printed for us here in Minnesota. Since they are uncoated card stock they are packaged in a re-closeable "Ziplock" style bag to protect them from moisture.
See our Youtube channel "MacGregor Historic Games" for more info about our period cards.
Buy any combination of four of our period cards and we'll include a free copy of our "Early Card Games" booklet
Wholesale pricing available.