Bridge

Bridge Playing Card Collection

Experience the enduring tradition of contract bridge with the Bridge Playing Card Collection at ClassicDecks.com. Featuring favorites from Bicycle, Hoyle, and Congress, these decks are made for players who appreciate the perfect blend of craft, competition, and history.

Bridge, which traces its lineage to the 17th-century English game whist, came into its modern form in the early 20th century and rapidly became the card game of choice for social gatherings, clubs, and tournaments. To meet the game’s needs, the bridge-size deck—narrower than poker cards—became standard, making it easier for players to fan and hold their thirteen cards in hand.

A hallmark in bridge history is the Congress playing cards brand, first introduced by Russell & Morgan (later US Playing Card Company) in 1881. Congress decks quickly grew in popularity thanks to their lavish designs and gold edges, and pivoted exclusively to bridge size in the 1920s as the bridge craze swept the nation. Through their artistry and quality, Congress decks became the premier choice for the bridge community and remain one of the longest-running American playing card brands even today.

Another remarkable chapter in bridge history was written in 1922, when the United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) launched its own radio station, WSAI. This groundbreaking move brought “Bridge by Radio” to listeners across the country, featuring expert instruction, live play, and promotions for bridge decks. These broadcasts not only helped popularize bridge but also cemented USPCC’s brands—including Congress and Bicycle—as staples in American homes.

Our collection celebrates this rich legacy with crisp-handling, classic bridge decks from Bicycle and Hoyle, and will soon include legendary brands like Congress. Each deck is crafted for club play, competitive tournaments, and collectors preserving America’s bridge heritage.

Enjoy a piece of this fascinating history when you shop the Bridge Playing Card Collection at ClassicDecks.com—where every hand connects you to a timeless card-playing tradition.