These playing cards were made for Wigston Hosiers Ltd. between 1930 and 1960 and given away as a promotional item to advertise the company. They are contained within a black leather case designed to look like a pocket Bible. Embossed on the cover in gold are the words "With the Compliments of the Wigston Hosiers Ltd., Paddock Street, Wigston. Integrity brand hosiery and underwear". The words "Let us Play" are embossed in gold down the spine of the case.
Playing cards were used in Europe from at least as early as the 14th century. In Britain stamp duty was introduced for cards in 1712 and the tax was in force until 1960. The numbers in the corners and patterned backs were Victorian inventions.
