The Complete KEM Playing Cards Collector's Guide

KEM is one of the most iconic names in premium 100% cellulose acetate playing cards — known for smooth handling, washable durability, and long-term performance at the table. Use this guide to choose the right size and index, understand what makes cellulose acetate special, explore KEM's legendary history, and shop the KEM lineup we carry at ClassicDecks.

Shop: KEM Brand Hub | All KEM

Not sure which plastic brand to buy? Read our KEM vs Copag vs Modiano Buyer’s Guide to compare materials (acetate vs PVC), lineup depth, and four-color suit options.

Quick Links (Shop KEM)

KEM History: The Original Premium Plastic Deck

KEM matters in playing-card history because it helped popularize the idea of a true "lifetime deck" — cards you can wash, keep in great shape, and play for decades. More importantly, KEM's founding story connects two legendary figures in card gaming: an Austrian inventor obsessed with material science and the world's most famous bridge authority.

The Klausner & Culbertson Partnership (1935)

Siegfried Klausner, an Austrian inventor, filed U.S. Patent #1,811,322 in 1929 for a process to create playing cards from cellulose acetate — a flexible plastic compound that had never been used for cards before. Klausner understood that cellulose acetate solved a critical problem in competitive card games: paper cards bend, crease, fray, and can be marked or altered. Plastic cards couldn't be subtly manipulated, making them ideal for high-stakes play and tournament integrity.

In 1935, Klausner's vision aligned with Ely Culbertson, the legendary American bridge player and rules authority. Culbertson had recognized the same problem Klausner had solved: serious competitive bridge required cards that resisted wear, marking, and bending during intensive tournament play. Together, they introduced KEM playing cards — positioning them as the world's first plastic cards designed specifically for serious players.

This partnership was revolutionary. Culbertson's endorsement as a bridge authority gave KEM immediate credibility in the competitive bridge community. By the 1940s-1950s, serious bridge clubs worldwide had standardized on KEM for tournament play. That heritage remains: bridge clubs are still one of KEM's strongest markets today.

Early Years & Multiple Locations (1935-1946)

KEM's early production happened in New York City. Manufacturing cellulose acetate cards required specialized equipment and chemical processes that few facilities could handle. The material was expensive, production was limited, and KEM focused on serving serious players and clubs rather than the mass market.

During the Great Depression and WWII, plastic card production was sporadic. Raw materials were rationed, manufacturing capacity was diverted to military use, and demand was limited to bridge players and competitive enthusiasts. This is why vintage KEM decks from the 1930s-early 1940s are extremely rare and sought-after by collectors.

The Poughkeepsie Era (1946-2004)

In 1946, KEM made a major move: the company purchased the 27-acre John Flack Winslow estate in Poughkeepsie, New York. This property, a private mansion and grounds built in 1867 and previously owned by shipping magnate John Flack Winslow, was intended as KEM's new manufacturing facility. The Winslow estate (now partially part of Marist College campus) became synonymous with KEM in the minds of serious card players.

However, KEM didn't actually build a factory on the Winslow grounds. Instead, in 1948, the company sold the estate and acquired a facility at 2 Beck Place (behind the Steel Plant Studio on Route 9), also in Poughkeepsie. This became KEM's primary manufacturing hub for the next 56 years.

Why Poughkeepsie mattered: The location gave KEM access to skilled labor, water (critical for the acetate process), and industrial infrastructure. More importantly for collectors, it's where KEM's most iconic post-war production happened — from 1946 to 2004. The Poughkeepsie address on vintage decks' Ace of Spades is a mark of authenticity and era dating.

Key Timeline

1929: Siegfried Klausner files U.S. Patent #1,811,322 for cellulose acetate card manufacturing
1935: KEM Playing Cards introduced in partnership with Ely Culbertson; production begins in NYC
1935-1945: Early production in New York City; sporadic output due to Depression and WWII rationing
1946: KEM purchases Winslow estate in Poughkeepsie, NY; begins transition to larger-scale production
1948: KEM acquires Beck Place facility; establishes Poughkeepsie as primary manufacturing location
1940s-1950s: KEM becomes standard choice for competitive bridge clubs and serious poker players worldwide
1950s-1990s: Peak production era; KEM dominates professional and semi-professional card markets
2004: United States Playing Card Company (USPCC) acquires KEM; Poughkeepsie facility closes
2004-2006: Production hiatus; manufacturing equipment and processes retooled
2006: USPCC relaunches KEM production (now in Mattituck, Long Island) using same cellulose acetate material
2019: USPCC (including KEM brand) becomes subsidiary of Cartamundi

KEM Era Timeline at a Glance

Era	Key Milestones and Identifiers	Notable Products/Features	Sourcing Tips and Notes
1935–1937 (Founding in NYC)	Siegfried Klausner invents cellulose acetate cards; early Aces with 1935 copyright, cleaning instructions included.	First mass-produced plastic decks; luxury feel praised in early reviews.	Check eBay for historical listings; verify authenticity via original packaging; research notes stable appreciation for pioneers.
1938–1945 (WWII Era)	Military ramp-up; pocket-sized decks for soldiers, Bakelite cases; tax stamps in some.	GI/pilot designs; durable for field use, feedback highlights wartime resilience.	Forum discussions for comps; avoid reproductions by checking material snap; trends show spikes during anniversaries.
1946–1990s (Poughkeepsie)	Relocation; casino dominance; artist collaborations; 10-cent tax stamps (1940–1964).	Arrow, Paisley; jumbo indices; "exceptional handling" per users, though some note fading.	Etsy for vintage lots; cite USPCC archives; evidence suggests 15% premium for sealed.
2004–Present (USPCC/Cartamundi)	USPCC buyout (2004), production resume (2006); Cartamundi (2019); modern standardizations.	Black/Gold Arrow; waterproof; mixed feedback on "snap" vs. pre-era, but consistent durability.	Official sites for reissues; community valuations; trends favor modern for play, vintage for collect.

Why KEM Feels Different: Cellulose Acetate

The main reason KEM stands apart from nearly every other plastic playing card is the material: 100% cellulose acetate. This isn't marketing jargon — it's a fundamental difference in material science that creates a distinctly different playing experience.

Cellulose acetate is a flexible plastic compound invented in the early 1900s for film and eyeglass lenses. When applied to playing cards, it creates a card that is noticeably thinner, more flexible, and smoother than PVC plastic (used by competitors like Copag). At the table, that translates into a distinct feel — one that serious players immediately recognize and prefer.

What You'll Notice When You Play KEM

Smooth, controlled glide: KEM cards deal cleanly and shuffle smoothly without the stiff feel of PVC plastic. The acetate has a slight "waxy" texture that reduces friction in a way PVC can't match.
Break-in period: Unlike other plastic cards, KEM decks need 2-3 sessions to "break in." New acetate cards feel slightly stiff; after a few hours of play, they relax into their optimal, smooth handling. This is normal and desirable.
Consistent handling over time: Acetate decks are engineered for repeat play and tend to keep their feel longer than PVC or paper options. A well-maintained KEM deck played 100 times feels nearly identical to one played 10 times.
Washable and practical: You can clean KEM cards when they pick up oils, lotion, or table grime — then get back to a crisp shuffle. Acetate resists water damage better than paper and cleans more thoroughly than textured PVC.
Durability for serious games: Acetate cards last 50 times longer than paper decks. Ideal for weekly card nights, clubs, and groups that put real mileage on a deck.
Temperature sensitivity: Acetate is more sensitive to extreme temperature and humidity changes than PVC. This is why storage conditions matter more for KEM — but it's also why proper care preserves them for decades.

Acetate vs. PVC: What's the Difference?

Many players assume all "plastic" cards are the same. They're not.

Feature	Cellulose Acetate (KEM)	PVC Plastic (Copag)
Thickness	Thinner, more flexible	Thicker, stiffer
Handling feel	Smooth, waxy, consistent	Slightly textured, rubbery
Break-in period	2-3 sessions	Minimal or none
Durability	50x longer than paper	20-30x longer than paper
Temperature sensitivity	Higher (requires care)	Lower (more forgiving)
Washability	Excellent	Good
Cheat resistance	Excellent (can't mark)	Excellent (can't mark)
Cost	Premium	Moderate
Professional standard	Yes (bridge clubs, poker rooms)	Yes (some poker rooms, travel, WSOP)

The KEM difference: Acetate is more labor-intensive to manufacture, more sensitive to storage conditions, and more expensive to produce. Serious poker players and bridge organizations choose KEM because the superior feel and durability justify the cost over the long term.

Shop now: All KEM | 2-Deck Sets | Single Decks

Arrow vs Paisley: Understanding KEM Back Designs

KEM produces two primary back designs: Arrow and Paisley. Both are iconic to the brand, but they appeal to different aesthetic preferences and have different historical significance.

Arrow Back (The Classic)

Arrow is the most recognizable KEM design — bold, geometric, and instantly iconic. The back pattern features a distinctive downward-pointing arrow motif that's been part of KEM since the 1930s. If you picture "a KEM deck" in your mind's eye, you're almost certainly picturing Arrow.

Best for: Players who want the classic, iconic KEM look and immediate brand recognition
Availability: Red/Blue (most common), Black/Gold (popular variant), and specialty colors
Aesthetic: Professional, traditional, familiar to serious players worldwide
Historical significance: Consistent design from 1935-present; recognized by bridge clubs, poker rooms, and casinos globally
Collector appeal: Vintage Arrow decks in rare colors command premium prices

Paisley Back (The Refined)

Paisley offers a more elegant, understated aesthetic while maintaining KEM's premium cellulose acetate construction. The intricate paisley pattern is sophisticated without being flashy — appealing to players who prefer subtlety at the table and collectors seeking an exclusive KEM option.

Best for: Players who prefer refined aesthetics; bridge clubs with design preferences; collectors seeking rarity
Currently available: Red & Blue Bridge Size 2-Deck Set (4 Pip Regular Index) — the only modern Paisley colorway in print by USPCC
Aesthetic: Sophisticated, elegant, professional without bold graphics
Handling: Identical to Arrow (same material, same feel)
Collector appeal: Limited production makes Paisley a more exclusive addition to collections; potential appreciation as inventory remains constrained

Choosing Between Arrow and Paisley

Both designs use identical cellulose acetate construction and deliver the same handling excellence. Your choice is purely aesthetic and personal preference:

Choose Arrow if you want the classic KEM look, immediate recognition, or prefer traditional designs
Choose Paisley if you prefer understated elegance, value exclusivity, or want something slightly different at the table

Shop both: KEM Arrow | KEM Paisley

KEM in Professional Play: Bridge, Poker & Card Gaming

KEM's reputation for excellence wasn't built in casual games — it was earned through decades of use in serious card clubs, professional poker rooms, and international bridge competitions. Understanding this professional heritage explains why KEM commands a premium price and why serious players demand it.

Bridge Heritage: The Original Market (1935-Present)

KEM's story begins with Ely Culbertson, the legendary American bridge player and rules authority. In the 1930s, Culbertson recognized a critical problem: paper playing cards bent, creased, and could be surreptitiously marked or damaged during intensive tournament play. In competitive bridge, where hands can last hours and cards are handled thousands of times, this spelled disaster.

Culbertson's partnership with Siegfried Klausner to introduce cellulose acetate cards solved this problem definitively. Plastic cards couldn't be bent to signal information, creased to mark a deck, or subtly damaged to influence play. More importantly, acetate's smooth handling made the game more enjoyable during long sessions.

By the 1940s-1950s, serious bridge clubs worldwide had standardized on KEM. This wasn't marketing — it was practical necessity in competitive play. Bridge organizations recognized KEM's integrity and adopted the cards as their standard. Today, bridge clubs remain one of KEM's strongest markets.

Why bridge players choose KEM: Consistency through hundreds of hands, resistance to wear and marking, and institutional trust built over 90 years.

Poker Room & Professional Play (1960s-Present)

While Bee (since 1892) and Aristocrat dominated casino floors across table games and gaming, dedicated poker rooms discovered KEM for its superior cheat-resistance and cellulose acetate durability. By the 1960s-1970s, serious poker rooms began adopting KEM alongside traditional choices. This professional poker room adoption reinforced KEM's reputation as a premium choice for serious players, though KEM never achieved singular market dominance like Bee and Aristocrat held on the casino floor.

In a poker room setting, card integrity is paramount. Professional poker rooms need cards that:

Can't be bent (acetate is rigid; paper bends easily with subtle pressure signals)
Can't be marked (plastic surface resists pen marks, creases, and edge work)
Can't be switched (plastic cards are immediately obvious if damaged; tampering is visible to trained eyes)
Last through heavy use (acetate decks last 50x longer than paper, reducing per-hand cost)

Today, serious poker rooms use a mix of premium cards, with both KEM and Copag respected choices based on player and room preference.

Bridge Size is the Poker Room Standard

Here's a surprising fact to most players: nearly all dedicated poker rooms use Bridge Size (narrow) cards, not Poker Size (wide).

Why? Bridge-size cards are:

Easier to hold: Smaller hands can manage a full 7-card hand comfortably
Easier to peek: Players can quickly see their hole cards without large, obvious movements
Professional standard: Poker rooms found that bridge size reduced hand fatigue during long sessions
Tournament standard: Major tournaments use bridge-size cards

This is a crucial distinction: if you're buying KEM to play like a professional, you almost certainly want Bridge Size, not Poker Size.

Professional Tournament History

KEM has been used in professional poker contexts. In 2007, USPCC (using KEM card stock with Bicycle branding) became an official supplier of the World Series of Poker. The partnership lasted from 2007-2011, followed by Fournier (USPCC's sister company) from 2012-2014, then Modiano in 2015. Since 2016, Copag has been the official WSOP card supplier and remains so today.

That said, KEM remains a respected and widely-used card in professional bridge clubs, serious poker players, and organizations that value cellulose acetate durability and long-term performance.

Why serious players choose KEM: Consistency, durability, superior acetate handling, resistance to marking, and 90+ years of proven performance under intensive use. In a professional setting where card quality matters, KEM's premium price is justified by long-term value.

Vintage vs Modern KEM: Understanding Two Eras

KEM has two distinct production eras, separated by a major ownership change in 2004. Understanding the difference helps you know what you're holding, why collectors pursue both, and what to expect from each.

Vintage vs Modern KEM: Quick Comparison

Aspect	Vintage KEM (1935-2004)	Modern KEM (2006-Present)
Production Years	1935-2004 (70 years)	2006-present
Manufacturer	Independent KEM company	USPCC (Cartamundi subsidiary)
Production Location	NYC (1935-1946), then Poughkeepsie, NY (1946-2004)	Mattituck, Long Island, NY
Material	100% cellulose acetate (Klausner formula)	100% cellulose acetate (USPCC formula)
Feel & Handling	Softer, more flexible; minimal initial stiffness	Slightly stiffer initially; 2-3 session break-in
Printing Quality	Varies by era; pre-1950s softer; 1960s-2004 crisp	Modern, bright, vibrant; consistent quality control
Color Durability	Good; may fade over 50+ years if poorly stored	Excellent; colors remain bright longer
Ace of Spades Dating	Date code (month/year, e.g., "6/57"); "KEM Playing Cards Inc."; Poughkeepsie address	No date code (USPCC standard); current manufacturer address
Jokers	Sharp, detailed design; no issues	Standard design; some pixelation issues (production error)
Cases/Packaging	Bakelite, metal, or specialty cardboard	Standard plastic clamshell
Rarity	Pre-1950 decks & specialty colors highly sought	Consistent production; easier to find
Availability Today	Limited (secondary market); premium pricing	Widely available; affordable
Aging Characteristics	May yellow slightly over decades (normal patina)	More stable; less prone to yellowing
Collector Value	Significant; rare colors & Bakelite cases command premium	Affordable entry point; limited editions may appreciate
Best For	Collectors seeking history, rarity, investment potential	Players, collectors on budget, working collections
Storage Sensitivity	Higher (more sensitive to temperature/humidity)	Moderate (more forgiving)

The 2004 Transition: Why the Change?

When USPCC acquired KEM in 2004, they inherited a legendary brand but not the original manufacturing equipment or Klausner's proprietary acetate formulas. The Poughkeepsie facility was aging, and cellulose acetate manufacturing is expensive and environmentally sensitive.

After a two-year production hiatus (2004-2006), USPCC relaunched KEM in 2006 using their own cellulose acetate compound and modern manufacturing equipment. The result: cards that maintain KEM's professional standards and handling excellence, but with improved consistency and color durability.

This transition frustrated some collectors who believed vintage KEM's acetate was "better." In reality, modern KEM is chemically similar (same material class), just manufactured under different specifications. The difference is subtle — mainly in initial stiffness and finish.

Which Should You Collect?

Both eras are worth collecting. They serve different purposes:

Purpose	Best Choice
Historical significance	Vintage KEM (Klausner era)
Playing collection	Modern KEM (consistent, affordable)
Serious collectors	Both (understand both eras)
Budget-conscious	Modern KEM
Rarity hunters	Vintage KEM (pre-1950 especially)
Color variety	Modern KEM (more colorways)
Investment potential	Vintage KEM (limited supply)

Shop modern KEM: All KEM | 2-Deck Sets

The Ace of Spades & Jokers: Understanding KEM's Card Design

The Iconic Ace of Spades

KEM's Ace of Spades is one of the most recognizable playing card designs in the world. On the right side of the card is an elegant drawing of a woman's face — a refined, artistic design that's remained consistent from 1935 to today.

For vintage KEM decks (pre-2004), the Ace carries crucial dating information:

Date code: A month/year format (e.g., "6/57" = June 1957) appears below the main design
Company name variations: "KEM" alone (very early), "KEM Playing Cards Inc." (most common), or variations
Copyright: "©1935" (consistent across all eras)
Address: Poughkeepsie, NY (1946-2004); modern KEM shows current manufacturer
Manufacturing markers: Different printing techniques reflect different eras

This Ace is instantly recognizable to serious players, bridge clubs, and poker rooms worldwide. It's one of the few playing card designs that transcends fashion — it looked elegant in 1935 and looks elegant today.

Jokers

Yes, KEM decks include jokers (with some exceptions noted below). The joker design has evolved:

Vintage KEM Jokers (pre-2004):

Sharp, detailed artistic design
Consistent quality across the deck
Collectible in their own right

Modern KEM Jokers (post-2006):

Same design intent as vintage
Known issue: Some modern KEM decks have pixelated jokers (a production/file management error reported by collectors)
USPCC has worked to address this, but quality control varies by production run

How to Date a KEM Deck

If you've found a vintage KEM deck and want to know its age, look for these key signals. Use multiple clues together — never rely on just one.

Quick Dating Checklist

☐ Ace of Spades maker line: "KEM" alone (very early) vs "KEM Playing Cards Inc." (most common) vs "USPCC" (post-2006)
☐ Date code on Ace: Month/year format (e.g., "6/39" = June 1939) appears on vintage decks; absent on modern
☐ Address on Ace/Tuck: "Poughkeepsie, NY" (1946-2004) confirms post-1946 era; other cities indicate earlier production
☐ Case type: Bakelite or metal cases (vintage) vs plastic clamshell (post-2006)
☐ Barcode presence: No barcode = pre-2000; barcode = 2000-2004; modern barcodes on post-2006 decks
☐ Tuck design & typography: Period fonts and layouts reflect era; 1950s looks different from 1970s
☐ Printing quality: Soft, slightly faded (vintage) vs crisp and vibrant (modern)
☐ Back pattern: Early Arrow designs differ subtly from modern; comparison to known examples helps date

Reading the Ace of Spades (Primary Dating Tool)

The Ace of Spades is your best friend for dating. Look for:

1. Company name:

"KEM" alone (1935-late 1930s — extremely rare)
"KEM Playing Cards Inc." (1939-2004)
"USPCC" or "United States Playing Card Company" (2006-present)

2. Date code:

Vintage KEM often includes month/year (starting around 1937)
Example: "6/57" = June 1957
Absence of date code = post-2006 (USPCC standard practice)

3. Address:

"Poughkeepsie, NY" confirms 1946-2004 era
Absence of address or "Mattituck, NY" = post-2006
Very early NYC addresses (pre-1946) indicate original NYC era

Understanding the Tuck Box

The outer box gives important clues:

Material: Bakelite or metal cases = 1939-2004; plastic clamshell = 2006-present
Typography & design: Compare to online examples — period fonts reveal era. 1950s serif fonts look different from 1980s sans-serif.
Printing quality: Modern printing (crisp, vibrant) vs vintage printing (softer, less vibrant, sometimes slightly faded)
Back pattern: Early Arrow designs differ subtly from modern; detailed comparison helps date within eras
Seal/Tax stamp: Pre-1960s decks often have federal tax stamps or seals — helpful for dating

Take Good Photos for Help

If you can't place your deck, photograph:

Front and back of tuck box
Both side panels
Top and bottom flaps
Ace of Spades (close-up of maker line, date code, and address)
Both Jokers (if present)
Any seal, tax stamps, barcodes, or markings
Interior of tuck (sometimes has printing date or manufacturing info)

Email high-quality photos to questions@classicdecks.com and our team can often identify your deck's era, production run, and collector value.

KEM Buying Guide: Size, Index, and Sets

Quick Picker (Fast Recommendations)

Most customers: Start with a KEM 2-Deck Set (the classic KEM purchase for a reason)
Bridge clubs / canasta groups / hand-heavy games: Choose Bridge Size
Professional poker play / all-purpose: Choose Bridge Size (this is the poker room standard, not Poker Size)
Maximum readability: Choose Jumbo Index
Need a refill deck: Shop KEM Single Decks
Shopping for canasta specifically: Shop KEM Canasta Sets

1) Choose Your Size

Bridge Size (Narrow): Narrower cards preferred by bridge and canasta players, easier to hold for large hands, and the professional poker room standard. Professional poker rooms use Bridge Size.
Poker Size (Wide): The classic width familiar for home poker night and general play.

Pro tip: If you want to play like a professional poker room, choose Bridge Size. Bridge size is the professional standard for a reason — it's more comfortable for long sessions and easier to manipulate during play.

Browse by size: Bridge Size | Poker Size

2) Choose Your Index

Regular / Traditional Index: The classic face size, readable at arm's length
Jumbo Index: Larger indices for faster scanning and easier reading across the table, especially valuable for players with vision challenges or preference for quick card identification

If readability is your top priority, start here: KEM Jumbo Index

3) Choose Your Format: 2-Deck Set vs Single Deck

2-Deck Sets: The most common KEM purchase — convenient for rotating decks during play (one deck rests while the other is used), popular for card groups and poker rooms, and economical
Single Decks: Ideal for replacements, backups, or building your own pair with custom combinations

Shop formats: 2-Deck Sets | Single Decks

KEM for Canasta

Many canasta groups prefer durable, easy-to-clean decks and commonly rotate two decks during play. If you're buying specifically for canasta, start with: KEM Canasta Sets.

Care & Cleaning (Keep Your KEM Deck "Like New")

KEM's washability is one of its greatest advantages. Proper care keeps your decks in excellent condition for years.

Routine care: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after each play session
Deep cleaning: Wash gently with mild soap and lukewarm water if cards pick up oils, lotion, or table grime
Dry thoroughly: Air dry fully before boxing (a lint-free towel speeds the process; never use heat)
Avoid heat: Don't leave decks in hot cars, direct sunlight, or near heat sources for extended periods
Sticky feel: Usually caused by oils/lotions — wash, dry completely, and shuffle a few times to restore glide

Preserving Your KEM Collection

KEM decks are built to last, but thoughtful storage ensures they stay in great condition for decades — especially important if you're collecting vintage cellulose acetate decks or building a working collection of modern KEM.

Temperature & Humidity

Playing cards are cardboard and plastic — both sensitive to environmental stress.

Temperature: Store at 65–70°F in stable, cool conditions. Avoid heat sources, direct sunlight, and temperature fluctuations
Humidity: Maintain 30–40% relative humidity. Too dry and cardboard becomes brittle; too humid and mold/warping risk increases
Location matters: Climate-controlled closets or interior shelves are ideal. Basements are risky (moisture). Attics are risky (heat fluctuations)

Light Protection

UV light fades ink and yellows cardboard — especially noticeable on vintage acetate decks.

Store away from direct sunlight
Use opaque storage boxes rather than clear display cases
Keep decks on closed shelving rather than open shelves
If you display KEM, rotate which decks are visible to prevent selective fading

Box Storage & Handling

The original tuck box is your first line of defense.

Original tuck provides structural support and light protection — preserve it when possible
If a tuck is damaged, use acid-free storage boxes (available from archival suppliers)
Avoid standard cardboard boxes (they contain acids that degrade cards over time)
Store decks upright, not stacked flat (flat stacking stresses the spine and core)

Handling Acetate Cards

Both vintage and modern KEM have unique properties:

For display-quality decks: Minimize handling. Use cotton gloves if you must handle sealed or pristine examples
For player copies: Accept that regular use will smooth the acetate slightly — this is normal wear, not damage
For vintage decks: Older acetate may yellow slightly if stored poorly. This is normal patina; it doesn't affect playability or value significantly

Sealed vs. Opened Decks

This is a collector choice with different tradeoffs:

Sealed vintage KEM: Commands premium prices because contents are presumed pristine. However, sealed decks can't be examined, and opening them begins degradation. Many serious collectors prefer opened decks they can verify.
Opened, well-condition vintage: Serious collectors often prefer opened decks because you can study the cards, handle them gently for photography, and verify actual condition. Value depends on apparent condition, not sealed mystery.
Modern KEM: Can be collected sealed for "new condition" appeal or opened to enjoy the handling and appreciate the acetate feel

Cleaning Your KEM Deck

One of KEM's greatest advantages is washability:

Regular maintenance: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after play
Deeper cleaning: Wash gently with mild soap and lukewarm water if decks pick up oils or grime
Dry thoroughly: Air dry completely (24+ hours) before boxing. A lint-free towel helps; never use heat
Avoid heat: Don't use heat guns or ovens — air drying only

Red Flags for Deterioration

Watch for these warning signs:

Yellowing: Acetate aging; not reversible. Move to better storage immediately to halt progression. Some yellowing is normal patina on decades-old decks.
Warping: Usually from humidity; can make cards unplayable. Indicates storage conditions need immediate adjustment.
Sticky feel: Usually oils/lotions — wash, dry completely, and shuffle to restore glide
Mold or musty smell: Indicates moisture intrusion. Requires immediate remediation and careful drying in a climate-controlled space.

If you acquire KEM decks in poor condition, moving them immediately to stable (cool, dry, dark) storage can halt further deterioration and preserve them for future play and enjoyment.

FAQ

Are KEM cards really plastic?

Yes — KEM decks are made from 100% cellulose acetate, a premium plastic chosen for durability, flexibility, and long-term handling. This is different from PVC plastic used by some competitors.

Is KEM still made from cellulose acetate today?

Yes. KEM has been made from cellulose acetate since 1935 and remains 100% acetate today. Despite the 2006 change in manufacturer, USPCC maintained the acetate material because it's core to KEM's performance and professional reputation.

Can I wash KEM cards?

Yes. Clean gently with mild soap and lukewarm water, then dry thoroughly before storing. This is one of KEM's greatest advantages.

What's the best first KEM purchase?

A KEM 2-Deck Set in Bridge Size (narrow). If you want maximum readability, choose Jumbo Index. Bridge Size is the professional poker room standard.

Should I buy Bridge Size or Poker Size?

If you're buying to play like a professional: Bridge Size (narrow). This is the poker room standard. For general home play with no preference, Bridge Size is still recommended. Poker Size is wider but less versatile.

What's the difference between vintage and modern KEM?

Vintage KEM (pre-2004) was manufactured by the independent KEM company in Poughkeepsie using Klausner's original formulas. Modern KEM (post-2006) is made by USPCC using similar but slightly different acetate compounds. Both are 100% cellulose acetate. Vintage has slightly softer feel; modern has better color durability.

What is Jumbo Index?

Jumbo index uses larger corner indices for easier reading across the table. Shop KEM Jumbo Index.

Do you sell single-deck refills?

Yes — shop KEM Single Decks for replacements and one-deck purchases.

Do you have KEM decks for canasta?

Yes — shop KEM Canasta Sets.

Why should I choose KEM over other plastic cards?

KEM is 100% cellulose acetate (not PVC), offering superior handling, professional poker room use, 90+ years of proven performance, washability, and durability. Serious poker players and bridge clubs worldwide choose KEM for these reasons.

How do I identify the age of a KEM deck I found?

Look at the Ace of Spades for date code (month/year), company name (KEM Playing Cards Inc. = vintage; USPCC = modern), and address (Poughkeepsie = 1946-2004; absent = post-2006). Check the tuck box for material (Bakelite/metal = vintage; plastic = modern). Email photos to questions@classicdecks.com for expert dating help.

Are vintage KEM decks a good investment?

Yes. Rare vintage colors, pre-1950 decks, and Bakelite cases appreciate over time. Limited supply and growing collector interest support value. However, play decks are worth significantly less than sealed, pristine examples.

Shop KEM Collections

If you want ClassicDecks to help identify your deck

Send clear photos of:

Front and back of the tuck
Both side panels
Top and bottom flaps
Ace of Spades
Both Jokers
Any seal/tax stamp/barcode
Any insert leaflet (if it's a set)

With those, we can usually place the deck into the right era and explain what the key identifiers mean.

Where to go next

Ready to build your KEM collection?
Whether you're hunting for specific eras, chasing vintage cellulose acetate decks, or exploring the plastic universe, ClassicDecks stocks vintage and modern KEM decks regularly. Browse our KEM collection or email deck photos to questions@classicdecks.com for identification help.

Sources (collector reference): ClassicDecks inventory/packaging examples and collector references including The World of Playing Cards (WOPC).

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