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Playing cards have been with us since the 14th century, when they first entered popular culture. Over the centuries packs of cards, in all shapes and sizes, have been used for games, gambling, education, conjuring, advertising, fortune telling, political messages or the portrayal of national or ethnic identity. All over the world, whatever language is spoken, their significance is universal. Their popularity is also due to the imaginative artwork and graphic design which is sometimes overlooked, and the “then & now” of how things have changed.

The World of Playing Cards Logo The World of Playing Cards
  1. Published April 18, 2008
  2. Updated April 21, 2022

Naipes Minifusor

Difusora S.A is a distributor of smokers' materials. Around 1970-80 they also distributed "Minifusor" playing cards.

Argentina Difusora S.A. Minifusor

Naipes Minifusor by Difusora S.A., Argentina

Difusora logo

Difusora S.A is a distributor / producer of smokers’ requisites, including lighters, cigarette holders and filters. Around 1970-80s they also distributed Minifusor playing cards which came in two versions as well as special packs for advertising and cartomancy►

There were two Spanish-suited versions: a modern re-drawing of the Catalan pattern (Minifusor Clásico) and an original fantasy quasi-eighteenth century design (Minifusor Tipo Español, regd no. 239,012) with a seated king of coins. Packs have two jokers and in some cases the artist’s signature Hernández is visible on the Joker. Hernández also designed a pack of cartoon cards►

The manufacturer’s details can often be found on the four of coins or cups, but in some cases are omitted.

Minifusor Clásico

Minifusor Clásico, a modern re-drawing of the Catalan pattern published by Difusora, c.1980

Above: Naipes tipo Español Minifusor Clásico   more →

Minifusor Tipo Español

Minifusor Tipo Español published by Difusora, c.1980

Above: Naipes "Minifusor" tipo Español. The courts are an original medieval fantasy design with each suit in a predominant colour. The king of coins is seated on a throne. Difusora also produced a Cartomancy version of this deck.

Cartomancy Edition

Buena Suerte Cartomancy cards published by Difusora S.A., Argentina, c.1980

Above: “Buena Suerte” Cartomancy cards published by Difusora S.A.   more →

Minifusor cigarette holders and filters

Left: Minifusor 2000 cigarette holder with filter. These items are still available through tobacconist suppliers, although the playing cards are no longer available. It is not known when or why playing cards were discontinued. However, the same logos and brand names are still being used.

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By Simon Wintle

Member since February 01, 1996

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Curator and editor of the World of Playing Cards since 1996.

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