18th Century English Playing Cards

A reproduction of a deck by Bamford of London, circa 1750. The initials "HC" on the King of Hearts suggest the printing blocks were likely made by an earlier printer whose business was taken over by Bamford. Although cards were printed in England as early as the 15th century, the oldest surviving English decks date from the 1600s. The classic style of this deck makes it a good representative of cards used in both Britain and America from the early 1700s to the late 1800s. Although Jokers were not included with cards until the 1800s, Jokers have been added to this deck for later, more modern games which may require them. A full deck of replica 18th century English playing cards, printed in full color with historical accuracy in mind.