Double Deck Boxed Set of Playing Cards by Harrods of London - New Old Stock

Very cool bright orange plastic case with pin stipes and two decks of playing cards by Jonathan Adler, circa 2000s. #1336.

Vintage sterling silver, wood-lined cigarette box / humidor, circa 1950s. The piece is in very good vintage condition and is finely crafted. It measures 8"W x 3.875"D x 1.25"H; the...

Harrods of London Mid Century Deck of Playing Cards. Very stylish and decorative deck of mid century playing cards by Harrods of London - made by h...

Pair of Unopened Congress Art Deco Playing Card Decks in Original Box – Sealed with 10-Cent Tax Stamp This pair of unopened Congress Playing Card decks is a rare find, preserved in its original Art Deco box. The exterior of the box showcases an elegant floral block print design in black and gold on a deep red paper, exuding classic 1920s-1930s sophistication. The interior is lined in gold paper and features two compartments, each containing an unopened deck of cards wrapped in original wax paper and sealed with the U.S. Playing Card seal and a 10-cent playing card tax stamp, a mark of authenticity and a nod to its historical significance. The two decks exhibit stunning Art Deco motifs, one featuring an intricate symmetrical pattern, while the other presents a bold geometric portrait of a man, titled "Serge" at the bottom. A sample card with a cut corner is included in each compartment, allowing a glimpse of the designs without breaking the seals. Despite its age, the cards remain in excellent antique condition, with only minor creasing and a tear/minor loss on the wax paper wrapping. First introduced by The U.S. Playing Card Company in 1881, Congress Playing Cards were known for their luxurious quality and artistic designs, often featuring elaborate backs that reflected the era’s artistic trends. By the early 20th century, Congress decks became a status symbol, frequently gifted and collected for their refined craftsmanship and decorative appeal. The 10-cent tax stamp on each deck dates back to the Revenue Act of 1894, when the U.S. government required playing card manufacturers to affix a tax stamp as proof of payment. These stamps remained in use until 1940, making them a valuable feature for collectors of vintage playing cards and historical ephemera. Condition & Collectability Cards: Pristine, sealed in original wax paper with only minor creasing; one tear in the wax paper. Interior Box: Clean and well-preserved. Exterior Box: Shows signs of wear with paper loss, dented and torn corners, water damage, and an affixed white sticker—evidence of its long history and original use. This sealed pair of Congress Art Deco playing cards...