Introduction
Cartophily, the hobby of collecting cigarette cards, has fascinated collectors for over a century. Originally used as advertising inserts in cigarette packs, these small yet beautifully designed cards became highly sought-after collectibles, covering diverse subjects such as sports, military history, famous personalities, wildlife, and more. For many, including myself, cartophily began as a childhood passion that turned into a lifelong hobby.
I first discovered cigarette card collecting during trips to Doncaster and Leeds, where I bought my first set in Doncaster. Over the years, my collection has expanded significantly, and I also collected tea cards found in PG Tips tea packets, further enriching my interest in cartophily. This article delves into the history of cigarette cards, their appeal, notable series, and how they have influenced collectors worldwide.
Origins and Evolution of Cigarette Cards
Early Beginnings
Cigarette cards originated in the late 19th century as stiffening inserts for cigarette packs. These inserts protected the delicate paper packaging but were soon used by manufacturers to advertise their brands and entice customers. Allen & Ginter, an American tobacco company, is credited with producing the first known cigarette cards in the 1880s, featuring athletes and celebrities.
The idea quickly spread to the United Kingdom, where companies such as W.D. & H.O. Wills, John Player & Sons, and Ogden’s began producing their own series of collectible cards. By the early 20th century, cigarette cards had become a marketing sensation, with each set comprising around 25 to 50 cards, encouraging smokers to complete full series.
Golden Age of Cartophily
The period between the 1900s and 1930s is considered the golden age of cigarette cards. During this time, tobacco companies issued cards on a vast range of topics, making collecting both exciting and educational. Popular themes included:
- Sporting Heroes – Footballers, cricketers, and boxers were frequently featured.
- Military and War History – World War I and II-themed cards gained prominence.
- Royalty and Historical Figures – Kings, queens, and national leaders.
- Nature and Wildlife – Birds, animals, and flowers.
- Film Stars and Celebrities – Hollywood actors and entertainers.
For many collectors, the thrill of acquiring rare and complete sets was a key part of the hobby. Some of the most valuable sets today include the 1937 Wills’ “Kings & Queens of England” and Player’s “Footballers 1928”.
My Personal Journey in Cartophily
As a young collector, I found my first set of cigarette cards during trips to Doncaster and Leeds, with my earliest purchase made in Doncaster. The excitement of uncovering these little pieces of history fueled my enthusiasm, and I soon expanded my collection by trading and purchasing more cards at flea markets and antique shops.
In addition to cigarette cards, I developed an interest in tea cards, especially those found in PG Tips tea boxes. These were similar in style and educational value to cigarette cards and provided another avenue for collecting. Over time, I amassed an extensive collection, ranging from classic cigarette card series to more modern tea card sets.
The Decline and Revival of Cigarette Cards
World War II and the Decline of Cartophily
The outbreak of World War II brought an abrupt end to the mass production of cigarette cards. Due to wartime shortages, paper and printing materials were redirected toward the war effort, leading tobacco companies to cease issuing collectible cards. After the war, production never fully resumed, as advertising methods had evolved, and the demand for cigarette cards diminished.
The Revival and Modern Collecting
Despite the decline in production, cartophily never truly disappeared. The Cartophilic Society of Great Britain, founded in 1938, played a crucial role in preserving the hobby by organizing events, publishing catalogues, and connecting collectors worldwide.
Today, cigarette cards remain a niche yet vibrant collector’s market. Auction houses, antique fairs, and online platforms such as eBay and specialized collector forums offer opportunities to buy, sell, and trade rare cards. Reprints and modern reproductions have also helped introduce the hobby to new generations.
Most Valuable and Sought-After Cards
While many cigarette cards are widely available, some rare and limited-edition series can fetch high prices at auctions. Some of the most valuable sets include:
- T206 Honus Wagner (1909-1911) – One of the most expensive cards ever sold, valued at over $3 million.
- Churchman’s “Boxing Personalities” (1938) – Featuring famous boxers of the era.
- Player’s “Cricketers 1934” – A highly sought-after sports card set.
- Wills’ “Speed” (1930s) – Depicting race cars and transport innovations.
Tea Cards: An Alternative Collectible
For collectors like myself, tea cards provided an exciting alternative after the decline of cigarette cards. PG Tips, Brooke Bond, and Typhoo were among the brands that issued collectible cards, often covering educational themes like wildlife, space exploration, and history.
Some popular tea card series included:
- Brooke Bond’s “Wildlife in Danger”
- PG Tips’ “The Race into Space”
- Typhoo’s “British Birds”
Tea cards offered a nostalgic and engaging way for collectors to continue their passion without the association with tobacco products.
Cartophily in the Digital Age
While traditional cigarette card collecting remains a hands-on hobby, the digital age has introduced new ways to engage with cartophily:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and dedicated collector sites make it easier to find rare cards.
- Digital Archives: Many museums and collectors have digitized their collections, providing educational resources and historical insights.
- Reprints and Digital Collectibles: Some companies have reissued classic cigarette card sets, while digital trading cards have emerged as a modern equivalent.
Conclusion
Cartophily is a timeless and rewarding hobby that preserves a unique part of history. From its early days as a marketing tool to its golden age and later decline, cigarette cards have left an enduring legacy. For collectors like myself, the joy of acquiring new sets, reminiscing about early finds in Doncaster and Leeds, and expanding into tea cards through PG Tips has been a deeply fulfilling experience.
Today, cartophily continues to attract enthusiasts who appreciate the artistry, history, and nostalgia these small cards represent. Whether through traditional cigarette cards, tea cards, or modern digital collecting, the passion for cartophily remains alive, connecting collectors across generations.