Past Masters’ Association Presentation Pack

Two packs of cards are contained in this sumptuous presentation case. In 2012, the 60th Anniversary of Queen Elizabeth’s reign coincided with the number of Livery Companies reaching 108. It was therefore possible to produce two packs of cards each with the name, shield and motto of a different company currently in existence. While this does not make for an ideal pack of cards for play, it offers a unique insight into the world of Livery Companies. Each pack comprises the standard 52 cards plus two jokers. Whilst the picture cards illustrate famous Kings, Queens and, in three cases, various Princes of Wales, the Jokers are left blank, although there are some obvious contenders!

Roddy Somerville, a past Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards, advised me that this was not the annual pack presented at the Installation Banquet in 2012. It was produced for the Past Masters’ Association for that year, the “Great Thirteen, 2012-2013”, and was not issued until late 2013 or early 2014.

Above: The burgundy presentation case for the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards’ 2013 Past Masters’ Association pack.

Above: The open presentation case containing the two packs, with the accompanying booklet at left.

Special permission was granted by the WCMPC for the Master's portrait to appear on the Ace of Spades as this normally only appears on the Installation set.

Above: The Ace of Spades and cards bearing the arms of individual City of London livery companies.

Above: Cards from the companion pack showing the arms and officeholders of further City of London livery companies.

Above: the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards: Diamond Jubilee Presentation Pack, 2013. See the key card►

Above: The accompanying booklet explains the Jubilee double pack and identifies the Master, Upper Warden or Bailiff, and motto for each livery company.