Playing cards have captivated people for centuries, serving as a timeless form of entertainment with a rich history. The standard deck of 52 cards is the most popular worldwide, with the British and French colonialism playing a significant role in spreading this deck size across the globe. In this article, we explore some surprising facts about playing cards, their history, and how they have been used in various ways over the years.
The Calendar and Playing Cards
An interesting theory suggests that playing cards are associated with the calendar. The number of cards in a deck corresponds to the number of weeks in a year, while the four suits may represent the four seasons. Additionally, the 13 cards in each suit could match the number of lunar cycles in a year.
Origins of Playing Cards
The first decks of cards were invented in China during the 9th century, and the earliest printed playing cards are also believed to have originated there. Over time, cards spread across India, Persia, and Egypt before finally arriving in Europe.
Las Vegas Casinos and Playing Cards
In Las Vegas casinos, decks of cards can last up to 12 hours before being discarded or sold. This practice prevents any distinguishing marks on the cards from giving players an unfair advantage.
World’s Oldest Full Deck of Cards
The world’s oldest complete deck of cards is on display at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This hand-painted tarot deck from the mid-15th century Netherlands is in excellent condition.
Casino Card Security Measures
Casino cards require various security measures to prevent cheating. These measures include larger symbols and characters, as well as 100% plastic material. New decks must be signed off by pit bosses and dealers before being reshuffled, and retired decks must be accounted for before being shredded or sold.
Historical Figures on Playing Cards
Some faces on traditional decks of 52 French cards are based on or inspired by famous figures from history, such as Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great.
Playing Cards in Wartime
During wartime, governments have used playing cards creatively, including as propaganda tools or as a way to help prisoners of war escape. For example, during World War II, the US government worked with a famous card company to create special secret decks for American prisoners of war. These decks had cards that would peel apart when wet to reveal snippets of maps to help with escapes.
Popular Playing Card Brands
The United States is known for having some of the most famous and iconic playing cards in the world, with the US brand Bicycle being the most well-known. The US Playing Card Company (USPCC) is the largest manufacturer of playing cards globally, producing popular brands like Aviator, Bee, Tally-Ho, and Bicycle. While the Belgian company Cartamundi also claims to be the largest card manufacturer in the world, they make many varieties of card games in different markets than the USPCC.
Playing Cards in Popular Culture
Nowadays, playing cards are more commonly found at casinos and magic shows. However, they still hold a special place in history and popular culture. The myth that American soldiers used the Ace of Spades cards to scare away superstitious Viet Cong members during the Vietnam War is just one example of how playing cards have been woven into our collective consciousness.
In conclusion, playing cards are not just a tool for card games but have a rich history and symbolism behind them. From their use in wartime to their popularity in casinos and magic shows, they continue to captivate people all over the world. And with the USPCC dominating the market, it’s clear that playing cards will remain a staple of our culture for years to come.
