Experience the ultimate card game combination of strategy and luck with the Piatnik Canasta Double Deck Set, specially designed for this beloved South American rummy-style game. Since Ferdinand Piatnik took over Anton Moser's card painting business in 1843, the Piatnik family has preserved and refined the art of playing card manufacturing for over 180 years. What began as a traditional craft shop in Vienna's 14th district has evolved into Europe's leading game publisher, with products now available in 72 countries worldwide.
The Canasta set (part number 2555 33) represents Piatnik's commitment to creating specialized playing card products tailored for specific games. This complete double deck set contains two decks of 55 cards each (52 playing cards plus 3 jokers per deck), providing the 108 total cards required for Canasta. The package includes a rules booklet explaining standard Canasta and popular variations, plus a score pad for tracking points throughout the game.
The bridge size cards measure 58 x 89 mm, the narrow standard that allows players to comfortably hold the 11-13 cards dealt in Canasta. What makes this set truly special is that each card face displays point values printed directly on the cards, making it easy to learn the game and quick to calculate scores without memorizing complex card values. This feature is invaluable for both new players learning Canasta and experienced players who want to speed up gameplay.
Canasta, which means "basket" in Spanish, originated in South America and became a worldwide phenomenon in the 1950s. The game is typically played with four players in two partnerships, though variations exist for two to six players. Players form melds (combinations of three or more cards of the same rank) and aim to create Canastas (melds of seven or more cards). Wild cards (2s and Jokers) add strategic depth, and the first team to reach 5,000 points wins.
All decks feature classic Piatnik quality with smooth handling, precise printing, and durable cardstock that withstands repeated shuffling and dealing. The cards are packaged in an attractive classic box set presentation, making this an excellent gift for card game enthusiasts.
Made in Vienna, Austria, these cards carry forward the Piatnik heritage established when Ferdinand and his three sons—Ferdinand, Adolf, and Rudolf—incorporated as "Ferdinand Piatnik & Söhne" in 1882. The company's dedication to quality materials sourced from sustainable forestry sources reflects their commitment to excellence that has endured since 1824.
Whether you're a seasoned Canasta player, teaching the game to family and friends, or discovering this classic card game for the first time, Piatnik's Canasta Double Deck Set delivers everything needed for authentic gameplay with the quality and tradition that has made this Austrian manufacturer a trusted name for nearly two centuries.
