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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.

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66: Adverts and related material 1862-1900

Some further material relating to cards from nineteenth and twentieth century periodicals.

66: Adverts and related material 1862-1900

New Year and a New Homepage

Today we're launching a new homepage layout.

New Year and a New Homepage

Announcing Ken Lodge’s Blog

We're excited to announce that Ken Lodge, one of the foremost experts on the standard English pattern, is relocating his blog to the World of Playing Cards. From now onwards you will be able to enjoy Ken's insights and opinions here from Ken's new blog page.

Announcing Ken Lodge’s Blog

Magic Tricks

​The World of Playing Cards is looking to expand its content by adding a new card trick database. Covering basic tricks to help bring a wider awareness to card tricks. If you're a magician and would be interested in contributing please contact us.

Magic Tricks

Looking Back At 2013 on The World of Playing Cards

2014 will be the 18th year of the World of Playing Cards, since we launched our website in 1996 the site has grown to over 1,500 articles and informative pages about the history and culture of playing cards. Here's a brief summary of 2013's highlights

Looking Back At 2013 on The World of Playing Cards