Original late-19th-century American playing cards identified as Russell & Morgan Co. Squared Faro No. 366, Cincinnati, dating to approximately 1887.
This matching group consists of:
* King of Clubs
* Queen of Clubs
* Ace of Clubs
The cards feature the distinctive square-corner construction, non-indexed court design, wide white borders, and finely speckled green/gray back pattern associated with the original Squared Faro No. 366 issue.
Russell & Morgan introduced this style during the formative years of the American playing-card industry, before the company became part of the United States Playing Card Company. The lack of corner indices was intentional for Faro-style cards and helps distinguish this issue from related Russell & Morgan designs such as Tigers No. 101.
The King and Queen use the elaborate early American court artwork associated with Russell & Morgan’s 19th-century production, while the Ace has the wonderfully stark single club pip characteristic of the deck.
All three appear to originate from the same deck or closely matched issue, with matching backs and consistent dimensions/printing.
These are period antique cards, not the modern reproduction issue. Later reproductions differ in corner treatment, proportions, and back colors.
Condition is quite attractive for cards approximately 135+ years old. There is expected light edge/corner wear, minor toning and age-related surface wear. Please examine all photographs carefully for exact condition.
A very appealing little group for collectors of:
Faro and gambling memorabilia, Russell & Morgan, early USPCC history, antique American playing cards, non-standard decks, or 19th-century gaming material.
Sold as the three cards shown.
Related Items:
3 Antique Russell & Morgan Squared Faro 366 Playing Cards c1887 K Q A Clubs
$119.99
Antique Black Amethyst Glass Mantel Set Hand Painted Flower Vases 3pc Mint
$149.00
3 Antique Umique Rare Glazed Clay Tribal Mini Faces Handcarved BO
$59.95
