KEM Playing Cards: Complete 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 | KEM 2-Deck Sets | KEM Bridge Size | KEM Jumbo Index

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.

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 years. More importantly, KEM's founding story connects two important figures in card gaming: an Austrian inventor focused on material science and one of the most influential bridge authorities of the 20th century.

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 was highly unusual for playing cards at the time. Klausner understood that cellulose acetate addressed a critical problem in competitive card games: paper cards bend, crease, fray, and can be marked or altered more easily. Acetate cards resisted casual bending and marking better than paper, making them well suited for serious play and tournament integrity.

In 1935, Klausner's vision aligned with Ely Culbertson, the legendary American bridge player, author, and bridge authority. Culbertson had recognized the same problem Klausner was trying to solve: serious competitive bridge needed cards that resisted wear, marking, and bending during intensive play. Together, they introduced KEM playing cards — positioning them as a premium plastic deck designed specifically for serious players.

This partnership gave KEM immediate credibility in the competitive bridge community. Culbertson's endorsement helped introduce the deck to serious players, and by the 1940s and 1950s KEM had become a trusted choice for many bridge clubs and tournament-minded players. That heritage remains: bridge players are still one of KEM's strongest audiences 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 appears to have been more limited and sporadic. Raw materials were harder to secure, manufacturing capacity was affected by wartime demands, and the audience for premium plastic cards was narrower than the mass market for paper decks. That helps explain why KEM decks from the 1930s and early 1940s are difficult to find and especially interesting to 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 closely associated with KEM history.

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 became central to KEM's post-war identity and is where the brand's most familiar vintage production era took shape. For collectors, the Poughkeepsie address on vintage decks' Ace of Spades is an important dating clue and one of the clearest ways to place a deck within the pre-USPCC KEM era.

Key Timeline

  • 1929: Siegfried Klausner files U.S. Patent #1,811,322 for cellulose acetate card manufacturing
  • 1935: KEM Playing Cards introduced with Ely Culbertson’s involvement; early production begins in New York City
  • 1935-1945: Early production in New York City; output appears to have been more limited during the Depression and WWII years
  • 1946: KEM purchases Winslow estate in Poughkeepsie, New York; begins transition toward larger-scale post-war production
  • 1948: KEM acquires Beck Place facility; establishes Poughkeepsie as the brand’s primary manufacturing location
  • 1940s-1950s: KEM becomes a trusted premium choice for many bridge clubs, competitive players, and serious card groups
  • 1950s-1990s: Peak vintage production era; KEM becomes strongly associated with premium bridge, poker, and club play
  • 2004: United States Playing Card Company acquires KEM; Poughkeepsie facility closes
  • 2004-2006: Production hiatus while manufacturing transitions
  • 2006: USPCC relaunches KEM production in Mattituck, Long Island using cellulose acetate material
  • 2019: USPCC, including the KEM brand, becomes part of Cartamundi

KEM Era Timeline at a Glance

Era Key Milestones and Identifiers Notable Products/Features Collector Notes
1935–1937 (Founding in NYC) Siegfried Klausner’s cellulose acetate card concept enters the market; early KEM decks connect closely to Culbertson-era bridge. Early plastic playing cards; premium washable deck concept; early Ace and packaging variations. Scarce and historically important; verify with Ace of Spades, packaging, and period materials.
1938–1945 (Pre-war and WWII Era) Production appears more limited; wartime conditions affected materials and manufacturing across many industries. Early bridge and specialty formats; period cases and packaging can help identify era. Difficult to find complete; inspect condition, case, cards, inserts, and tax stamps where present.
1946–2004 (Poughkeepsie Era) Poughkeepsie becomes central to KEM’s identity; Beck Place production defines the classic pre-USPCC era. Arrow, Paisley, bridge and poker formats, jumbo index versions, and many collectible vintage colorways. Poughkeepsie address and Ace date codes are key dating clues; complete sets with original cases are especially desirable.
2006–Present (USPCC/Cartamundi Era) KEM relaunches after the USPCC acquisition; modern production continues the cellulose acetate tradition. Modern Arrow, Paisley, standard plastic clamshell cases, current retail formats, and updated packaging. Best choice for regular play; vintage collectors often compare feel, finish, packaging, and Ace details across eras.

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 many PVC plastic decks. At the table, that translates into a distinct feel — one that many 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 stiffer feel some players associate with PVC plastic. The acetate has a slight waxy texture that reduces friction in a distinctive way.
  • Break-in period: Many KEM decks benefit from a short break-in period. New acetate cards may feel slightly stiff; after a few sessions, they often relax into smoother handling.
  • Consistent handling over time: Acetate decks are engineered for repeat play and tend to keep their feel through many sessions when properly cared for.
  • 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 can be cleaned more thoroughly than paper decks.
  • Durability for serious games: Acetate cards last far longer than paper decks under normal use, making them a strong choice 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 some PVC decks. This is why storage conditions matter more for KEM — but proper care can preserve them for many years.

Acetate vs. PVC: What's the Difference?

Many players assume all "plastic" cards are the same. They're not. KEM uses cellulose acetate, while brands like Copag and Modiano use PVC plastic.

Feature Cellulose Acetate (KEM) PVC Plastic (Copag / Modiano)
Material Cellulose acetate Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC
Handling feel Smooth, flexible, slightly waxy Smooth to textured, depending on brand and finish
Break-in period Often benefits from a few sessions Often minimal
Durability Excellent for repeat play Excellent for repeat play
Storage sensitivity More sensitive to heat and humidity Generally more forgiving
Washability Excellent Excellent
Cost Premium Moderate to premium
Best for Bridge clubs, serious card groups, premium feel, collectors Poker, travel, frequent play, all-around plastic-card use

The KEM difference: Acetate is specialized, more sensitive to storage conditions, and more expensive to produce. Many serious poker players and bridge players choose KEM because the feel, durability, and heritage justify the cost over the long term.

Explore more: All KEM | KEM 2-Deck Sets | KEM Single Decks | Acetate Playing Cards | Plastic Playing Cards | Plastic vs Paper Playing Cards Guide

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 has been part of KEM’s visual identity for generations. If you picture a classic KEM deck, you are probably 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 depending on production and inventory
  • Aesthetic: Professional, traditional, and familiar to serious players
  • Historical significance: A long-running design associated with bridge clubs, poker groups, and premium card play
  • Collector appeal: Vintage Arrow decks in unusual colors or cases can be especially collectible

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 a more refined KEM option.

  • Best for: Players who prefer refined aesthetics; bridge clubs with design preferences; collectors seeking a less common KEM look
  • Currently available: Red & Blue Bridge Size 2-Deck Set, 4 Pip Regular Index, depending on current stock
  • Aesthetic: Sophisticated, elegant, professional without bold graphics
  • Handling: Same material family and premium KEM feel as Arrow
  • Collector appeal: Paisley can be a more distinctive addition to a KEM collection

Choosing Between Arrow and Paisley

Both designs use cellulose acetate construction and deliver the premium KEM handling experience. Your choice is mostly aesthetic and based on 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 a more refined look, 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 was built through decades of use by serious card clubs, bridge players, poker groups, and collectors who valued washable durability and consistent handling. Understanding this professional heritage helps explain why KEM still commands a premium price.

Bridge Heritage: The Original Market (1935-Present)

KEM's story begins with Ely Culbertson, the legendary American bridge player, author, and bridge authority. In the 1930s, Culbertson recognized a critical problem: paper playing cards bent, creased, and could be marked or damaged during intensive tournament play. In competitive bridge, where long sessions and repeated handling are common, card durability and integrity mattered.

Culbertson's partnership with Siegfried Klausner helped introduce cellulose acetate cards to serious players. Acetate cards resisted bending, creasing, and casual marking better than paper. More importantly, acetate's smooth handling made the game more enjoyable during long sessions.

By the 1940s and 1950s, KEM had become closely associated with serious bridge play. This was not just marketing: bridge players valued decks that resisted wear, bending, and casual marking during long sessions. Today, bridge players and clubs remain one of KEM's strongest audiences.

Why bridge players choose KEM: Consistency through many hands, resistance to wear and casual marking, and institutional trust built over decades of play.

Poker Room & Serious Play

While Bee and Aristocrat became famous across casino floors and gaming rooms, many serious poker groups also came to appreciate KEM for its acetate feel, durability, and resistance to wear. KEM did not replace every other professional card brand, but it became one of the respected premium options for players who preferred cellulose acetate.

In a poker room or serious home-game setting, card integrity matters. Serious players often want cards that:

  • Resist bending: Acetate resists casual bending and creasing better than paper
  • Resist casual marking: The plastic surface is harder to mark or damage than paper
  • Show wear more clearly: Damaged plastic cards can often be noticed and removed from play
  • Last through heavy use: Acetate decks can last much longer than paper decks when properly cared for

Today, serious poker rooms and home players use a mix of premium cards, with KEM, Copag, Modiano, Bee, and other brands chosen based on feel, material, budget, and tradition.

Bridge Size and Poker-Room Style Play

Here's a useful distinction for many players: bridge-size cards are common in poker rooms and tournament-style setups, even though many home players assume poker-size cards are the default for poker.

Bridge-size cards are:

  • Easier to hold: Smaller hands can manage larger hands of cards more comfortably
  • Easier to peek: Players can quickly see hole cards with less movement
  • Comfortable for long sessions: Narrower cards can reduce hand fatigue
  • Common in tournament-style setups: Many serious poker setups use bridge-size cards

This is a useful distinction: if you're buying KEM for a poker-room style setup, Bridge Size is often the better starting point.

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 among bridge players, serious poker groups, collectors, and organizations that value cellulose acetate durability and long-term performance.

Why serious players choose KEM: Consistency, durability, acetate handling, resistance to casual marking, and decades of proven performance under intensive use. For players who value premium card quality, KEM's higher price can be 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 2006-present
Manufacturer Independent KEM company USPCC, now part of Cartamundi
Production Location New York City early, then Poughkeepsie, New York Mattituck, Long Island, New York
Material 100% cellulose acetate 100% cellulose acetate
Feel & Handling Often described as softer and more flexible Often slightly stiffer at first; may benefit from break-in
Printing Quality Varies by era and storage history Modern, bright, and consistent
Ace of Spades Dating Often includes date code, KEM Playing Cards Inc., and Poughkeepsie information Modern USPCC-era markings; typically no vintage-style date code
Cases/Packaging Bakelite, metal, cardboard, and other vintage packaging styles Modern plastic clamshell and current retail packaging
Availability Today Secondary market; condition varies widely Current retail market; easier to replace
Collector Value Can be significant for rare, complete, or well-preserved sets Best for play, working collections, and current KEM buyers
Best For Collectors seeking history, rarity, and pre-USPCC examples Players, clubs, gifts, and regular use

The 2004 Transition: Why the Change?

When USPCC acquired KEM in 2004, they inherited a legendary brand and had to transition production away from the old Poughkeepsie operation. Cellulose acetate manufacturing is specialized, and the change created a clear break between vintage KEM production and the modern USPCC era.

After a two-year production hiatus from 2004 to 2006, USPCC relaunched KEM using modern production methods while keeping the brand centered on cellulose acetate. The result is a modern KEM deck that still belongs to the acetate tradition, while feeling slightly different from many older Poughkeepsie-era decks.

This transition remains a common discussion point among collectors. Many players feel vintage KEM decks have a softer or more flexible feel, while modern KEM decks often feel a bit stiffer at first and may need some break-in. Both eras are important: vintage KEM for history and collectibility, modern KEM for regular play.

Which Should You Collect?

Both eras are worth collecting. They serve different purposes:

Purpose Best Choice
Historical significance Vintage KEM, especially pre-USPCC examples
Playing collection Modern KEM, because it is consistent and replaceable
Serious collectors Both, especially when comparing eras
Budget-conscious play Modern KEM
Rarity hunters Vintage KEM, especially unusual colors, cases, and early examples
Regular card nights Modern KEM 2-deck sets

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 has remained closely associated with KEM for generations.

For vintage KEM decks, especially pre-2004 examples, the Ace often carries crucial dating information:

  • Date code: A month/year format, such as "6/57" for June 1957, may appear below the main design on vintage decks
  • Company name variations: "KEM" alone, "KEM Playing Cards Inc.," or later manufacturer references can help place the deck
  • Copyright: "©1935" appears across many eras and should not be treated by itself as the deck’s production date
  • Address: Poughkeepsie, New York strongly suggests the classic pre-USPCC production era
  • Manufacturing markers: Printing technique, typography, ink, and packaging details can help refine the date

This Ace is instantly recognizable to serious players, bridge clubs, collectors, and poker groups. It is one of the playing-card details collectors look for first when trying to identify a KEM deck.

Jokers

Yes, KEM decks usually include jokers, though exact contents can vary by set, era, and format. The joker design has evolved over time:

Vintage KEM Jokers:

  • Detailed artistic design
  • Useful for confirming whether a deck is complete
  • Collectible in their own right when paired with the correct Ace, deck, and case

Modern KEM Jokers:

  • Continue the KEM design tradition
  • Useful for verifying modern deck completeness
  • May differ in print quality and finish depending on 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, "KEM Playing Cards Inc.," or USPCC-era wording
  • ☐ Date code on Ace: Month/year format, such as "6/39" for June 1939, may appear on vintage decks; absent on many modern decks
  • ☐ Address on Ace/Tuck: "Poughkeepsie, NY" helps identify the classic pre-USPCC era; other locations may indicate earlier or later production
  • ☐ Case type: Bakelite, metal, cardboard, or specialty vintage cases vs modern plastic clamshell
  • ☐ Barcode presence: A helpful clue, especially on later packaging, but not enough by itself
  • ☐ Tuck design & typography: Period fonts and layouts can reflect era
  • ☐ Printing quality: Softer vintage printing vs crisp modern printing can help, but storage condition also matters
  • ☐ Back pattern: Early Arrow designs and later versions may differ subtly; comparison to known examples helps date a deck

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 can suggest very early production
  • "KEM Playing Cards Inc." appears on many vintage KEM decks
  • "USPCC" or "United States Playing Card Company" indicates modern ownership-era production

2. Date code:

  • Vintage KEM often includes a month/year code
  • Example: "6/57" = June 1957
  • Absence of a date code may suggest a modern deck, but always use other clues too

3. Address:

  • "Poughkeepsie, NY" helps confirm the classic vintage era
  • Absence of the Poughkeepsie address or modern manufacturer references can suggest post-USPCC production
  • Very early location references may indicate pre-Poughkeepsie production

Understanding the Tuck Box

The outer box gives important clues:

  • Material: Bakelite, metal, cardboard, or plastic cases can help place the deck
  • Typography & design: Compare to known examples — period fonts and layouts can reveal era
  • Printing quality: Modern printing tends to be crisp and vibrant; vintage printing may be softer or aged
  • Back pattern: Early Arrow designs differ subtly from modern versions; detailed comparison helps date within eras
  • Seal or tax stamp: Older decks may have seals or tax stamps that provide additional dating clues

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, including a close-up of maker line, date code, and address
  • Both Jokers, if present
  • Any seal, tax stamps, barcodes, or markings
  • Interior of tuck, if it contains printing, labels, or inserts

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

KEM Buying Guide: Size, Index, and Sets

Quick Picker: Fast Recommendations

1) Choose Your Size

  • Bridge Size (Narrow): Narrower cards preferred by bridge and canasta players, easier to hold for large hands, and common in poker-room style setups.
  • Poker Size (Wide): The classic wider format familiar for many home poker nights and general card games.

Pro tip: If you want a poker-room style setup, Bridge Size is often the better starting point. If you want the classic wider feel many casual players associate with poker, choose Poker Size.

Browse by size: Bridge Size | Poker Size

For a broader explanation, read our Bridge Size vs Poker Size Playing Cards guide.

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 useful for players with vision challenges or anyone who prefers quick card identification

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

For more detail, read our Jumbo Index vs Standard Index Playing Cards guide.

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

  • 2-Deck Sets: The most common KEM purchase — convenient for rotating decks during play, popular for card groups and poker rooms, and practical for most regular games
  • 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, but 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 or 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 years — 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 in stable, cool conditions. Avoid heat sources, direct sunlight, and temperature fluctuations
  • Humidity: Moderate, stable humidity is best. Too dry and cardboard can become brittle; too humid and mold or warping risk increases
  • Location matters: Climate-controlled closets or interior shelves are ideal. Basements can be risky because of moisture; attics can be risky because of heat fluctuations

Light Protection

UV light fades ink and yellows cardboard — especially noticeable on vintage 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 reduce selective fading

Box Storage & Handling

The original tuck box or case is your first line of defense.

  • Original packaging provides structural support and light protection — preserve it when possible
  • If a tuck is damaged, use acid-free storage boxes from archival suppliers
  • Avoid acidic storage materials that can degrade cards and packaging over time
  • Store decks upright when possible and avoid crushing boxes under heavy stacks

Handling Acetate Cards

Both vintage and modern KEM have unique properties:

  • For display-quality decks: Minimize handling. Clean, dry hands are essential; cotton gloves may be useful for pristine or fragile examples
  • For player copies: Accept that regular use will smooth the acetate slightly — this is normal wear, not necessarily damage
  • For vintage decks: Older acetate may yellow slightly if stored poorly. Some patina is normal; severe warping, stickiness, or odor needs attention

Sealed vs. Opened Decks

This is a collector choice with different tradeoffs:

  • Sealed vintage KEM: Often attractive to collectors because contents are presumed unused. However, sealed decks cannot be fully inspected.
  • Opened, well-preserved vintage KEM: Many collectors value opened examples because you can verify the Ace, Jokers, date codes, completeness, and card condition.
  • Modern KEM: Can be collected sealed for new-condition appeal or opened and enjoyed as a working premium deck.

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 before boxing. A lint-free towel helps; never use heat
  • Avoid heat: Don't use heat guns, ovens, or direct sunlight for drying — air drying only

Red Flags for Deterioration

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Yellowing: Acetate or packaging aging; not reversible, but better storage can slow progression
  • Warping: Usually from humidity or heat; can make cards difficult to play
  • Sticky feel: Often oils or lotions — wash, dry completely, and shuffle to restore glide
  • Mold or musty smell: Indicates moisture intrusion and requires immediate attention

If you acquire KEM decks in poor condition, moving them immediately to stable, cool, dry, dark storage can help slow 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 remains centered on cellulose acetate, which is core to the brand’s identity and playing feel.

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 is a strong starting point for many players. If you want maximum readability, choose Jumbo Index.

Should I buy Bridge Size or Poker Size?

Choose Bridge Size for bridge, canasta, large hands, and poker-room style play. Choose Poker Size if you prefer the wider format many home players associate with poker and general card games.

What's the difference between vintage and modern KEM?

Vintage KEM refers to pre-2004 decks from the independent KEM era, especially Poughkeepsie production. Modern KEM refers to post-2006 USPCC-era production. Both are cellulose acetate, but many collectors notice differences in feel, finish, packaging, and dating clues.

What is Jumbo Index?

Jumbo index uses larger corner indices for easier reading across the table. Shop KEM Jumbo Index, or read our Jumbo Index vs Standard Index Playing Cards guide.

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. Many players choose it for the premium feel, washability, durability, bridge heritage, and long-running reputation among serious card players.

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

Look at the Ace of Spades for date code, company name, and address. Poughkeepsie information usually points to the classic vintage era, while USPCC-era markings point to modern production. Also check the case, tuck, Jokers, tax stamps, barcodes, inserts, and packaging style. Email photos to questions@classicdecks.com for help.

Are vintage KEM decks collectible?

Yes. Rare vintage colors, pre-1950 decks, unusual cases, and complete well-preserved sets can be especially collectible. Value depends heavily on condition, completeness, age, packaging, and whether the decks are sealed or opened.

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, or manufacturer mark
  • Any insert leaflet, guarantee card, or instruction sheet

With those, we can usually place the deck into the right era and explain what the key identifiers mean. Email photos to questions@classicdecks.com.

Where to go next

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

Sources: ClassicDecks inventory and packaging examples, collector references, The World of Playing Cards, USPCC/KEM brand history, and public playing-card reference materials.

 

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