Playing Cards, 1977 (around) (Ref:L.H139.1991.6.0)
Playing Cards, 1977 (around) (Ref:L.H139.1991.6.0)
A set of playing cards in their original box. Both the box and the back of each card are printed with the same silver and purple design, which also features a crown in the top left-hand corner (see Other Views). The cards were made by John Waddington Ltd. to celebrate the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II in 1977.
The Waddington Company was founded in the 19th century and originally concentrated on making board games. The company started making playing cards in 1922.
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.
