MADISON.cards
PAPER EMPIRES by Jason McKinstry
PAPER EMPIRES by Jason McKinstry
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Journey back and discover the fascinating lives of America's Early Playing Card Makers.
Retrace the pioneering steps of some of the nation's first influencers and Cardmen.
See the remarkable events that shaped one of the world's favourite pastimes.
PAPER EMPIRES reveals the incredible true story of the United States Playing Card Industry as it follows the careers of four early print masters.
New research has provided volumes of never-before-seen images and information, unearthing the beauty and cultural significance of EARLY AMERICAN PLAYING CARDS in an extraordinary way. Each chapter focuses on an individual maker showcasing their contributions to the industry and nation while providing the historical narrative behind the scenes. This exciting record places them front/center during the most intriguing times of the 19th century.
PAPER EMPIRES FEATURES:
- THE MANUFACTURERS and their untold, chronological biographies.
- HISTORIC MAPS to authentically retrace the maker’s locations.
- PERSONAL DOCUMENTATION provides a detailed account of the lives and families.
- VISUAL HISTORICAL SECTIONS to immerse you in the backdrop of American History.
- PLAYING CARD SECTIONS with vibrant and high-quality images of every deck.
- FULL-SIZE IMAGE GALLERY starring many of the best pictures in the book.
VOLUME I contains the complete histories of L.I. COHEN, ANDREW DOUGHERTY, SAMUEL HART and JOHN J. LEVY.
Once you meet the makers, you'll never look at playing cards the same way again.
Paperback, Hardcover and Digital Editions are available.

Let customers speak for us
from 163 reviewsBuy this beautiful deck, it's awesome. It comes with a great reveal trick and a tutorial that gives you a lot of ideas.
Following the bottom deal master class it was great. I also liked that it was short and to the point (1 h).
Utterly in love with this deck. So humbled to have played a small part in its creation!
I have absolutly nothing but praise for madison card there cards are excellent qualty the online course are great. Lookforward to my future purchase.
Just got my hands on the Enigma cards and I’m seriously impressed. The feel is super smooth right out of the box, and the design hits that perfect balance of classy and mysterious — exactly what you’d expect from Madison. They handle beautifully for magic and card flourishes, and the subtle look make them stand out without trying too hard. Definitely one of my new favorites in the collection. Love both colors!
Phenomenal craftsmanship, works flawlessly, highly recommended
Well Advocate device isincredible . Mad deck yeah is very nice deck but no duplicate what I was little bit surprised and disappointed but that's no worries everyone can buy one deck extra for duplicates
Great customer service and product!
I recieved my 2 Green Twisters, 2 White Acolytes and 2 Hellions and the all look and handle amazing.
Very nice set. Glad to have both a regular and a gaffed deck with some unique gaff.
These cards are so amazing!! I can recommend these cards. Plus team was great with communication. What I love about this cards is the design and card box. MAD RESPECT
First of all, the quality of the jig literally could not bebetter. It’s precise, does exactly what it’s supposed to, and will never wear out or break. The teaching is clear and very helpful. What an amazing tool!So glad I got this.
Aside from the BLUE TWISTERS, this is the most beautiful cards I've ever held.