Journey back to where it all began with the Bicycle Archive Series #1 - Old Fan Back 1885 Playing Cards—an authentic reproduction of one of the very first designs ever issued under the legendary Bicycle brand.
The Historic Old Fan Design:
Introduced in 1885, the Old Fan back is widely believed to be the first back design issued under the new Bicycle brand by Russell and Morgan Printing Company, marking the birth of what would become the world's most iconic playing card brand. The design reflects the Anglo-Japanese style that fascinated Victorian-era designers and artists, incorporating an elegant Japanese fan motif surrounded by ornamental flourishes characteristic of the period.
The Old Fan design was discontinued in 1894 after less than a decade of production, making authentic vintage examples highly sought after by collectors and historians. This Archive Series reprint captures the historical essence of 1885, allowing modern collectors and enthusiasts to experience one of Bicycle's most historically significant designs.
Key Features & Specifications:
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Faithful Historical Reproduction - Meticulously recreated to capture the aesthetic and spirit of the original 1885 design, with historically accurate coloring, line work, and compositional elements
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Old Fan Back Design - Mirrored back featuring an elegant Japanese fan surrounded by decorative floral elements, circular borders, and the characteristic Victorian-era ornamental detailing
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Japanese Influence - The design exemplifies the Anglo-Japanese aesthetic trend popular during the Victorian era, with the iconic fan motif reflecting the period's fascination with Japanese art and design
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Available Color Options - Originally released in red and blue (most common), with rare period variants in green and brown
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Custom Vintage-Style Court Cards - Face cards display an older aesthetic to match the historical period, maintaining authenticity to the era while remaining functional for play
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Custom Ace of Spades - Features period-appropriate styling with vintage-looking Bicycle branding and "No. 808" designation reflecting the original 1885 branding
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Double-Backer Gaff Card - Included as a bonus feature for magic and performance use
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Premium Air-Cushion Finish - Manufactured on Bicycle's signature embossed air-cushion stock that provides smooth shuffling, superior handling, and exceptional durability
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Standard Poker Size - Traditional 2.5" x 3.5" dimensions ensure compatibility with all standard card games, magic routines, and collecting display
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Embossed Tuck Case - Features sculpted and embossed highlights that bring the classic design to life, with textured details throughout
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Made in the USA - Manufactured by USPCC (United States Playing Card Company) to premium standards
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Environmentally Conscious - Printed on card stock from sustainable forests using vegetable-based inks and recycled materials
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Complete Deck - Includes 52 premium cards, 2 jokers (standard black/white and colored versions), 1 double-back gaff card, and informational cards
Historical Significance:
This is not just another playing card deck—it's a window into playing card history. The Old Fan back represents a pivotal moment when Bicycle established itself as a brand committed to beautiful, innovative designs. Collectors often note that this reproduction is one of the most historically significant decks in the Archive Series.
Perfect For:
- Card history enthusiasts and scholars studying Victorian-era design
- Collectors seeking authentic reproductions of historically significant decks
- Players interested in experiencing what the first Bicycle decks were like
- Magic performers and cardistry artists who appreciate classic designs
- Gift-givers looking for cards with genuine historical and cultural significance
- Anyone building a comprehensive Bicycle deck collection
Why the Archive Series Matters:
By republishing iconic designs like the Old Fan Back, Bicycle honors its heritage while making history accessible to modern players and collectors. The Archive Series celebrates 130+ years of design evolution, allowing enthusiasts to own and experience decks that shaped card design history.
