Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Playing Cards

Published August 02, 2014 Updated May 08, 2026

The images for the cards were inspired by the typical passengers who traveled in luxury style in the 1920s and 30s.

1984 FranceRailwaySouvenirVsoeGerard GalletGrimaud

The Venice Simplon- Orient-Express playing cards were designed by the studio of Gerard Gallet which is based in Paris, c.1984. The images for the court cards were inspired by the typical passengers who traveled in luxury style in the 1920s and 30s, and the joker by a railway guard from the same period.  The card set is presented in a satin lined leatherette covered box.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Playing Cards Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Playing Cards Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Playing Cards

Above: Venice Simplon-Orient-Express playing cards designed by the studio of Gerard Gallet, Paris, c.1984. The cards are printed on top quality card and have gilt corners. 52 cards + 2 jokers + 2 extra cards.


Venice Simplon-Orient-Express Playing Cards

Above: double deck of Orient Express Venice Simplon Playing Cards. Images courtesy Kelly Wheeler.

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By Simon Wintle

Spain • Member since February 01, 1996

I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.

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