Some Did-You-Knows About Cards
Oldest Decks Date Back Centuries
The oldest known deck of playing cards dates back to the 15th century and was hand-painted in Germany. Some decks from this era were considered luxury items and even decorated with gold leaf.52 Cards for 52 Weeks
A standard deck has 52 cards, which many believe corresponds to the 52 weeks in a year. The four suits are also said to represent the four seasons.The Ace of Spades Was Once a Tax Stamp
In 18th-century England, the Ace of Spades featured a stamp showing proof that taxes on playing cards had been paid. Forging this stamp was considered a serious crime.The Suicide King
The King of Hearts is often referred to as the "Suicide King" because he appears to be sticking his sword into his own head. This design quirk came from centuries of copying worn designs, which distorted the original artwork.One Deck, Many Names
In various countries, the suits of playing cards differ. For example, in Italy and Spain, traditional suits include swords, cups, coins, and clubs, rather than the hearts, diamonds, spades, and clubs found in most Western decks.Jokers Weren’t Always Part of the Deck
The Joker was added to American card decks in the 1860s as a trump card for the game of Euchre. Today, it’s used in games like Poker, Canasta, and as a wild card in various games.The Most Famous Card Brand
Bicycle Cards, produced by the United States Playing Card Company since 1885, are considered one of the most recognizable brands worldwide and have been used by magicians, gamblers, and even soldiers during WWII for secret missions. They are also the event sponsor for the 2025 World Euchre Championship this year!A Royal Mystery
The face cards (Kings, Queens, Jacks) in French playing cards were once associated with historical figures like Julius Caesar and King David. However, over time, their identities became less distinct and now vary by design and manufacturer.
