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The Peerless Playing Card Company, London c.1890

Published July 03, 1996 Updated May 27, 2022

James English's playing card factory was re-named Peerless in around 1880 when the title Peerless Card Company appeared on the ace of spades.

United KingdomPeerlessThe Peerless Playing Card Company

The Peerless Playing Card Company, London c.1890

ace of spades back

ames English's playing card factory was re-named Peerless in around 1880 when the title Peerless Card Company appeared on the ace of spades. The non-standard 'fancy' pack shown here was produced in around 1890. The pseudo-French medieval courts were designed by Aymer Vallance, a follower of William Morris.

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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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