Description
The Parisian Masterpiece That Defined Luxury
The Medallions Playing Cards represent one of theory11's earliest and most ambitious forays into true luxury playing cards. Designed in Paris, France by renowned graphic artist JC Desevre, this deck took 18 months of meticulous development to perfect, establishing the gold standard for premium playing cards that would influence the entire industry.
The Parisian Design Revolution
JC Desevre brought a unique European sophistication to playing card design, drawing inspiration from Victorian-era elegance, ornate cigar labels, and classical architecture. His vision was to create a deck that felt like it belonged in a 19th-century Parisian palace—timeless, sophisticated, and impossibly luxurious. The result was a deck that theory11 proudly calls "one of our finest creations" and reviewers describe as "sheer elegance" and "striking beauty."
The Ultra-Lux Tuck Box
The Medallions tuck case is a masterpiece of packaging design:
- Deep Brown Base – A rich, soulful brown that appears almost black, creating dramatic contrast
- Ultra-Lux Matte Paper – Premium textured paper that feels substantial and refined
- Extensive Gold Foil – Covered top to bottom in brilliant gold foil, not just accents
- Embossed Stitch Elements – Intricate embossed patterns that add tactile dimension
- Cross Keys Motif – The signature design element appears throughout, symbolizing access to luxury
- Gold Foil Sticker Seal – Precision-printed seal with gold foil elements
- Interior Luxury – Even the inside of the tuck features premium matte brown finish
The 18-Month Pursuit of Perfection
Theory11's development process for Medallions was extraordinarily thorough. They "dug up the perfect recipe" through extensive research into premium materials, printing techniques, and design elements. This commitment to excellence set the template for all future theory11 luxury decks and established their reputation as creators of "the world's finest playing cards."
Custom Artistry Throughout
Unlike decks that simply recolor standard courts, Medallions features completely redrawn, hand-illustrated court cards:
- Custom King, Queen, and Jack Designs – Each court card is uniquely drawn with delicate features and refined lines
- Cross Keys Symbolism – Courts hold keys, locks, and medallions that reinforce the theme
- Metallic Gold Ink Accents – Rich gold metallic ink adds luxury to every court card
- Victorian-Inspired Details – Ornate patterns and classical elements throughout
- Custom Ace of Spades – Features the medallion emblem with "Medallions" banner and USPCC designation
- Identical Jokers – Two matching Jokers with shield, crossed keys, and "Joker" in elegant script
Premium Materials & Craftsmanship
- Made in USA by USPCC – Printed by the United States Playing Card Company
- Casino-Grade Stock – Premium thickness and durability
- Premium 909 Finish – theory11's signature embossing for superior handling
- Vegetable-Based Inks – Environmentally conscious printing
- Thin Borders – Back design features thin white borders for elegant cardistry and magic
- Gaff Card Included – Double-backer gaff card for magic routines
The Medallions Design Language
The back design showcases concentric circles, leaf patterns, architectural elements, and floral motifs that reference both classic playing card heritage and ornate Victorian design. The circular medallion pattern creates stunning visual effects during spins, fans, and flourishes, while the thin borders make the deck ideal for advanced cardistry.
Cultural Impact & Legacy
Medallions helped establish theory11 as the premier luxury playing card brand. Reviewers consistently praise it as "one of the better decks" for its combination of beauty and functionality. The deck's success proved that playing cards could be true luxury items, paving the way for the Monarchs, Citizens, and other premium theory11 releases.
Perfect For:
- Serious Collectors – A foundational piece in any luxury playing card collection
- Magic Performers – Custom courts and gaff card provide unique performance possibilities
- Cardistry Enthusiasts – Thin borders and circular back design excel at flourishes
- Luxury Gift-Giving – The presentation makes it an impressive, memorable gift
- Display – The tuck box is beautiful enough to showcase on its own
- Gameplay – Functional design makes it suitable for elegant card games
The theory11 Commitment
Every Medallions deck reflects theory11's creed: "Every product at theory11 is developed by our world class team... We bring together industry-leading designers, creators, editors, and producers to develop products unlike any you have ever seen. Our goal is to provide quality over quantity. We only release products that we believe in."
The Medallions Playing Cards transform the ordinary deck into a Victorian-era treasure, combining Parisian design sophistication with American manufacturing excellence. Each card is a miniature work of art that honors the heritage of luxury while delivering the performance that professionals demand.