Timeless Treasures: Why I Collect 19th Century (& early 20th-century) Tobacco & Trade Cards (And Why You Should Too!)
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- Apr 5
- 4 min read
A Journey Back in Time
There’s something magical about holding a piece of history in your hands. When I first discovered 19th-century (and early 20th-century) tobacco and trade cards, I wasn’t just looking at old cardboard—I was looking at relics from an era long before mass media, digital advertising, and modern collectibles. These cards tell stories, capture moments, and have somehow survived over a century of history.
So how did it all start?
The Birth of Tobacco & Trade Cards
In the late 19th century, businesses needed a way to advertise their products beyond traditional print ads. Rumor has it, tobacco companies, in particular, faced a problem—cigarette packs were flimsy and easily crushed. Their solution? Inserting small, stiff cards into each pack to provide structural support. These cards quickly became a marketing tool, featuring everything from famous actors and athletes to animals, historical figures, and scenic landscapes.
At the same time, other businesses—coffee companies, candy makers, and even department stores—began producing “trade cards” with vibrant artwork and advertisements, creating an entirely new category of collectibles.
Legendary Sets & Manufacturers
Many of the most sought-after vintage cards come from a few iconic manufacturers. Here are some of the highlights:
• Allen & Ginter (1880s-1890s) – One of the pioneers in tobacco cards, their sets featured stunning lithographs of athletes, American Indians, flags, animals, smokers, and more.
• Duke Cigarettes (1880s-1890s) – Known for their elaborate and artistic designs, including the N79 "Poor Boys" and N80 Cowboy series, which captured the spirit of the Wild West.
• Goodwin & Co. (1888 Champions Set) – This set featured some of the earliest images of professional athletes, making it a must-have for sports collectors.
• Kinney Bros. and W. Duke Sons & Co. – Produced sets featuring military figures, historical events, and even futuristic inventions.
Survivors of Time: How These Cards Endured
Think about everything that has happened since the 1880s—two World Wars, the Great Depression, multiple recessions, natural disasters, and even house fires. The fact that any of these fragile, thin-stock cards have survived is astonishing.
Many of these cards were printed on delicate paper stock and often discarded after their initial purpose was served. Yet, thanks to careful collectors, estate finds, and attic discoveries, a surprising number have made it through over a century of history. Their survival makes each one a rare window into the past.
One common issue with vintage tobacco and trade cards is paper loss or missing backs. This is because many collectors in the late 19th and early 20th centuries glued them into scrapbooks—a popular way to display and preserve ephemera at the time. Unfortunately, when these cards were later removed, portions of the back design were often torn away, lowering their condition but not necessarily their historical appeal. Finding high-grade examples without paper loss is much more difficult, making pristine cards even more desirable.
Why I, and You, Should Collect Vintage Tobacco & Trade Cards
For me, collecting these cards isn’t just about their value—it’s about their history. Each one connects me to a different era, telling a story of commerce, culture, and artistry from a time before television, before mass photography, and before sports cards were a multi-billion dollar industry.
But beyond personal enjoyment, there are other reasons to collect:
• Historical Significance – These cards capture moments, industries, and figures from the past.
• Artistic Beauty – Many are hand-drawn or lithographed with remarkable detail.
• Investment Potential – As fewer high-grade examples survive, demand continues to rise.
• The Thrill of the Hunt – Finding a rare 1880s card in a flea market or estate sale is a rush.
There’s Something for Everyone
One of the best things about 19th-century tobacco and trade cards is their diversity. Unlike modern sports cards, which focus on specific leagues or players, these vintage treasures cover an array of subjects, including:
• Sports (Baseball, Boxing, Bicycling, Track & Field)
• Wild West Legends (Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley, Cowboys, Indians, Outlaws)
• Historical Events (Flags of the World, War Heroes, Inventions)
• Animals and Nature
No matter your interest, there’s likely a 19th-century card series that speaks to you.
Preserve the Past: The Importance of Protecting Your Cards
Owning a piece of history comes with responsibility. Many of these cards are 135+ years old, and preserving them ensures that future generations can appreciate them as well.
To protect your collection:
• Use Proper Storage – Invest in archival-quality sleeves, top loaders, or binders.
• Avoid Sunlight & Humidity – UV rays and moisture can cause irreversible damage.
• Be Mindful When Handling – Oils from your fingers can degrade the paper over time.
By taking these steps, you’re not just collecting—you’re preserving history.
Check out our tobacco/cigarette card recommended products below.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through my affiliate link, at no extra cost to you. we only recommend products and services that we personally use or believe will add value to my readers:
BCW Tobacco Card Insert Sleeves - This insert will then fit inside a regular top loader or semi-rigid holder.
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Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, there’s something truly special about owning a piece of the past.
If you have a collection of 19th-century tobacco/trade cards you are looking to sell, please send us an email.
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