The World of Card Collecting: Celebrating Remarkable Collectors within the Community
In the vast and captivating world of card collecting, enthusiasts from all walks of life come together, driven by a shared passion for the artistry, rarity, and stories behind each deck.
When we called upon our dynamic community to highlight their favorite card collectors, the response was overwhelming.
In this special blog article dedicated to these remarkable collectors, delve into their fascinating journeys through the world of cards and explore the origins of their passion, as well as gain insight into their wonderful collections.
When the Journey of Collecting Cards Began?
I have been indirectly collecting cards ever since I started practicing magic. Surprisingly, I still have some of the very first decks I owned when I was around 5 years old. Back then, my collection consisted mostly of standard bee and bicycle decks, but I also received cheap souvenir tourist decks as gifts from family members and friends.
As I grew older, around the age of 10, I had my own money to spend, and that's when I began purchasing my first custom decks. Interestingly, one of the earliest decks I bought was the first edition print run of the Black Tiger deck. At that time, I probably bought several dozen of them. Little did I know that those cards would later become one of the most sought-after and valuable custom decks printed in the 21st century. Unfortunately, I used them extensively and ultimately destroyed them, unaware of their future significance.
Number of decks in the collection
At this point, I have lost track of the exact number of decks I own. It's about time for me to conduct a "re-inventory," but the last rough count I had was in 2019 when I had well over 10,000 decks of cards. It seems that no matter how many cards I trade or sell, I always come across new and creative decks to add to my collection! This constant discovery of decks is my wife's least favorite magic trick, as you can imagine. It's like building a house of cards, both figuratively and literally!
Favorite category of cards to collect
I don't have a single favorite category of cards to collect. My collection is diverse, ranging from loose cards dating back to the French 1500s to complete decks from the American Civil War and the Steamboat era. I also have decks from the First and Second World Wars, as well as decks that were popular during the casino culture of the Western world in the latter half of the 20th century. Additionally, I collect what we now consider as 'modern' playing cards.
The decks that capture my attention are those with intriguing stories, significant historical backgrounds, or captivating artwork. I am also drawn to decks that offer a unique tactile experience and exceptional handling qualities.
Ultimate favorite decks of cards
My absolute favorite deck of cards is the Apollo Clover back series, printed by the United States Playing Card Company, and designed by none other than myself!
Ps: If you missed out on the initial launch, they will soon be available directly through the Bicycle Cards shop!
Daniel Nicholas
However, if I were to choose an everyday deck to carry with me, it would undoubtedly be a fresh pack of blue Circle Back Tally Ho's. They strike the perfect balance with an elegant back design, clean and easily recognizable faces, and a card stock and feel that is simply flawless!
When the Journey of Collecting Cards Began?
I started collecting decks almost 17 years ago when I was around 10 years old. During that time, my interest in magic was steadily growing. One day, I visited the Magician's Apprentice magic shop in Hollywood, FL, where I discovered the Ellusionist Black Tiger deck and Ghost deck. It was a tough decision, but I ultimately chose the ghost deck, which my dad generously purchased for me. Since then, whenever I came across captivating decks, I would add one or two to my collection. I particularly enjoyed the Bicycle limited series that would occasionally appear at Target, especially the Jokers. Unfortunately, the series was discontinued after deck 2, even though it was initially planned for 12 decks.
Number of decks in the collection
I currently have over 1,000 decks but I am slimming down my collection.
Favorite category of cards to collect
As for me, my favorite category of cards to collect switches all the time, ranging from fun and whimsical designs to minimalistic ones. I'm drawn to anything that catches my eye or has the potential to gain value. I'm always up for adding new and exciting decks to my collection.
Ultimate favorite decks of cards
There are numerous decks that hold a special place in my heart for various reasons. The Ghost deck stands out as my first "custom" deck, although I remember the irony of buying it and losing a few cards the very next day. I have a deep admiration for the Madison Revolvers, as they were one of the first decks I attempted cardistry moves with, even though I ended up making mistakes along the way.
However, throughout my journey, I've had the incredible opportunity to design my own decks. With that bias in mind, my ultimate favorite deck is the False Anchor's Red Workers. It holds a special place due to its dark red color, innovative marking system, and the immense effort I invested in its creation.
Salomon Vainstein
When the Journey of Collecting Cards Began?
I initially began collecting cards when I was around 10 or 11 years old. At first, my collection was quite small, but then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and during that time, I rediscovered my passion for performing magic. This reignited my interest in card collecting, prompting me to restart and expand my card collection.
Number of decks in the collection
I lost track of the exact count after reaching 200 decks, but my best estimate would be that my collection currently stands at just under 1,000 decks.
Favorite category of cards to collect
I mainly collect green decks! Green has always been my favorite color, and it's what initially drew me to collecting cards as a child. I've carried on that tradition by continuing to collect green-colored decks.
Ultimate favorite decks of cards
My absolute favorite deck has to be The Parlour Dynastinae deck by The Gentleman Wake and Stockholm17! When I first encountered it, luxury decks were still relatively unfamiliar to me, and I hadn't come across any other deck quite like it. It was my first significant investment where I truly indulged in purchasing a deck of cards, and it completely opened my eyes to the world of luxury decks. Prior to acquiring that deck, I had only purchased decks within the $10 - $15 price range, and seeing The Parlour Dynastinae deck completely shifted my perception of what a luxury deck of cards should encompass.
Gavin Wong
When the Journey of Collecting Cards Began?
In 2005, I started collecting a few decks of cards from casinos for our family card games. By 2008, I had established a poker league with family and friends, which continues today, although our gatherings have been less frequent since last year.
In April 2011, I had the idea of finding vintage decks for our poker games. I came across a fascinating BP Grimaud deck from the 1910s on eBay, which appeared to have never been shuffled. After setting it aside, I discovered a deck made by Congress, a brand I hadn't heard of before.
This sparked my interest in acquiring more antique decks, including ones from Congress. In early 2017, I came across 52 Plus Joker and joined their community. I attended their convention with my father, and we became instantly hooked on the experience.
Number of decks in the collection
I have approximately 400 decks of cards in my collection, ranging from 1885 to the present day.
Favorite category of cards to collect
My favorite category of cards to collect is Congress playing cards, specifically the ones produced between 1881 and 1922.
Ultimate favorite decks of cards
My ultimate favorite deck of cards is currently the "Grand Canyon" deck (1911, Congress 606). It holds a special place in my collection as it is one of only two known decks in existence. Surprisingly, none of the prominent figures in playing card collecting have ever laid eyes on it or owned one. Its rarity and unique status make it truly exceptional.
