New Altenburg Skat cards – German DDR Pattern

The card game Skat, originating from Thuringia, is played with 36 cards and can be played with either French or German suit symbols, depending on preference. This deck features authentic Altenburger Skat cards with German suits (Acorns, Hearts, Leaves, Bells). The designs are created by the traditional card manufacturer ASS Altenburg, based in the city of Altenburg, also known as the “Skat City.” A distinctive feature of the Altenburger German deck is that the acorns are red instead of yellow, which sets it apart from other German decks. The face cards feature generic figures that likely reflect certain cultural groups: Hearts = Anglo-Saxon, Leaves = Germanic, Acorns = Nordic, Bells = Franconian.

The aces display fictional coats of arms with the respective symbols. The back of the cards features the traditional Altenburger cornflower pattern, which is typical for traditional cards from the manufacturer Altenburg.

Above: New Altenburg Skat cards – German DDR Pattern manufactured by ASS Altenburg, redigitization in 2002. 36 cards printed on sturdy cardboard in a tuck box.

The manufacturer’s signature is on the Ace of Hearts, which carries the "Altenburger Spielkarte" emblem within the coat of arms, as well as on the Seven of Hearts, which bears the Altenburger company logo. On the Ace of Acorns, in elegant script, you’ll also find the phrase "Die echten Altenburger Spielkarten" (The Real Altenburger Playing Cards). This card is also the showcase card on the packaging.

Note from Marek Brejcha

This card pattern was created in 1964 and is sometimes referred to as the Neue Altenburger Spielkarte, or DDR Pattern. More information in the article by Ulrich Knüpfer: The DDR Pattern►

Author's Note

This deck holds a special place in my collection due to its beautiful design. The detailed illustrations and unique symbols, paired with the vibrant colors from the high-quality print, make flipping through the cards truly magical. I especially appreciate the strong character of the figures and the fact that Thuringia continues to honor this traditional card game. The city's deep connection to playing cards adds a meaningful touch. The gorgeous card back design completes the deck perfectly - K.H.