Your guide to the language of the archive
Whether you’re a lifelong collector, a history enthusiast, or simply curious about a card you’ve found, this glossary is here to help. Each term is written in plain language and, whenever possible, connects you to articles, people, places, and Collection Objects throughout the archive. So don’t worry about knowing all the terminology. Start with one word, follow your curiosity, and enjoy the journey.
Cancelation
A mark or overprint applied to a tax stamp to prevent it from being removed and reused on another deck. Learn more about Cancelations.
Manufacturer
The company that physically produced a deck of playing cards. The manufacturer may be different from the brand, publisher, distributor, or company advertised on the deck.
Swap Card
An individual card from a deck of playing cards that is collected or traded with other collectors.
Tax Stamp
A government revenue stamp placed on a deck of playing cards as proof that the required tax had been paid. Stamps were used from 1862 to 1965. Learn more about Tax Stamps
True Swap Card
A card made for collecting and trading that has a decorative back and a blank face rather than standard playing card indices and suits.