Pioneers Playing Cards

Step back into the age of exploration with Pioneers Playing Cards, an intricately illustrated marked deck inspired by the spectacle and optimism of the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair.

Designed by renowned playing card artist Oban Jones, Pioneers has been created to feel like a genuine souvenir from another era. The artwork is completely custom, from the ornate card backs and distinctive pips to the Aces, Jokers and tuck box, with every detail hand-drawn to build a convincing late-19th-century aesthetic.

Look closer and the historical styling hides something rather clever. Integrated into the ornate back design is a fully marked system covering all 52 cards, giving magicians an easily readable tool without compromising the appearance of the deck. To an audience, it simply looks like beautifully elaborate vintage artwork.

The presentation is equally impressive. The tuck is made from textured laid card chosen to evoke period paper, with carefully placed debossing adding depth to the detailed illustration. Imagery including the Lady of Liberty, a phoenix and the flags of the United States and Chicago further connects the design to its World’s Fair inspiration.

Inside, the cards are printed on Ellusionist’s luxury-pressed E7 stock, available in Red and Blue variants.