Cigarette cards, issued by Capstan cigarettes (16 cards) and Wills's cigarettes, pasted into a Kodak photo album

The sets of cards include: Public buildings (16 cards); Everyday life around the world (41 cards); English history (50 cards); History of aviation and aviators (69 cards); Postal service (25 cards); People of the world (12 cards); Birds (52 cards); Australian animals (7 cards).

Tobacco companies began issuing these colourful cards from the 1880s and by the early 20th century thousands were being issued and collected. Cigarette cards were a development of the tradesman cards of the 17th and 18th centuries and as a result of advances in colour printing techniques. The earliest cards were produced as 'stiffeners' for the soft packets of cigarettes, but the companies quickly realised the potential and marketing value of the cards. WD & HO Wills issued their first general interest set in 1895.

By the beginning of the 20th century there were 300 tobacco companies issuing the cards, and Wills alone produced some 175 sets, with cricket being one of the most popular subjects.

During World War I, there was a drop in production. After the war, the cards became popular again. Military topics, sports and movie stars became the focus. World monumants, animals and plants remained favorite themes.

Production of cigarette cards ceased during World War II due to restrictions. Manufacture ceased in the 1950s because of rising costs in production and distribution.

Permission to use this item for any purpose, including publishing, is not required from the State Library under these conditions of use.

Buy a high resolution copy.