Algeria

Spanish suited playing cards produced by B. P. Grimaud (Paris) for Algeria, around 1910.

Algeria is a gateway between Africa and Europe. A version of the old Spanish National pattern was produced by Jacques Sellon of Marseille and Fossorier, Amar & Cie of Paris for North African countries (Algeria & Morocco). Cards were also made by Camoin (Marseille), Malka Frères (Casablanca) and other anonymous manufacturers for export to Algeria. These were usually distinguished by a preponderance of green and a repeating pattern of stars and crescents on the backs. The tax stamp can be seen on the two of swords.

‘Naypes Finos’ - 40 cards in wrapper

Above: Spanish suited playing cards produced by B. P. Grimaud (Paris) for Algeria, around 1910. The cards have square corners and small indices. Image courtesy Juan José Pérez-Castejón.