RUSSIA

Cards from a Russian standard woodblock and stencil pack of circa 1820. The ace of diamonds carries the tax stamp showing a pelican with outspread wings over a nest. The money raised by this tax went towards supporting the Imperial orphanages and funding the education and training of the foundlings.

   jack of spades
ace of diamonds queen of diamonds king of diamonds
queen of clubs king of clubs jack of hearts king of hearts

 
Thanks to Dudley Ollis for his collaboration on this page. If you experience any problems on this website, please notify the Webmaster. © 2003 The World of Playing Cards.