Bicycle No.808

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The famous 'Bicycle' playing cards were first introduced by Russell & Morgan Printing Co in 1885. They were hugely successful and became the most well-known brand in the world.

Above: deck of 'Bicycle No.808' playing cards, c.1928, with the last type of standard Bicycle Ace of Spades, which is still in use today, albeit with minor modifications. The ace of hearts in this example has the Argentinean importation tax stamp and the name of the importing agents Palmer & Cia overprinted.   more...

Below: detail from uncut sheet of 'Bicycle No.808' playing cards (printed in 1999), showing the familiar Ace of Spades and Joker which are still in use today and famous around the world.

The Bicycle Playing Cards official website contains a lot of interesting information, including company history and a downloadable catalogue.

References:

Dawson, Tom & Judy: The Hochman Encyclopedia of American Playing Cards, U.S. Games Systems Inc., 2000

Hargrave, Catherine Perry: A History of Playing Cards and a Bibliography of Cards and Gaming, Dover Publications, New York, 1966