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What Is the Best High End Playing Card Brand? Read Our Luxury Playing Cards Reviews!
Fingers crossed, after reading through our handy little buying guide (located below) you have now figured out what type of luxury playing cards are most suitable to your needs, as well as the specific design you’re after. This will make it a lot easier when it comes to narrowing down your options and selecting the ideal playing card deck to help you mesmerize your friends! So, let’s get looking at our top 5 picks, shall we?
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Our Top Choice
The Theory 11 Monarch Playing Cards are ideal for those looking for a classic card design with a modern edge. If, however, you’re after a card set offering something a little bit different, don’t forget to check out the
Theory 11 Artisan Playing Cards instead!
Theory 11 Monarch Playing Cards - Made in the USA on FSC-Certified Paper Sustainable Materials, 4 Color Choices
Features
Founded in 2007, Theory 11 is a magic brand that has a passion for inspiring wonder and creativity in its customers. There are over 11 artists within the brand that focus on creating high-quality, stylish products that will keep you coming back for more. Today, Theory 11 is one of the largest communities of magic creators in the world, with over 1,500 registered artists and members. It’s the largest producer of luxury playing cards in America and has designed over 78 different playing card styles.
We love the Theory 11 Monarch Playing Cards due to their sustainable design and the fact that they were featured in the blockbuster movie ‘Now You See Me’ too! These luxury playing cards are created using FSC-certified paper derived from sustainable forests using vegetable-based inks. The set was also featured in GQ’s Holiday Gift Guide due to the product’s elegant gold foil and navy-blue design. All the artwork used in this card set is custom, including custom aces, jokers, and ad cards. If you’re looking to add a touch of regality to your poker games or magic tricks, then look no further than Monarch.
Best Value
The Ellusionist Killer Bees Playing Cards are ideal for anyone with a dark side looking to unleash their inner illusionist—and help the honeybees. If you aren’t a fan of bees, however, then don’t forget to check out the
Ellusionist Arcane Playing Card Deck instead for a more magical feel!
Ellusionist Killer Bees Playing Cards Deck
Features
Founded in 2001 by Brad Christian, Ellusionist is an online training environment for those looking to learn more about the intriguing world of high-impact magic. Today, Ellusionist boasts over 60,000 members worldwide, offering one of the largest online magic forums on the web. If you want to be a high-end performer, and general mind-bending illusionist, then Ellusionist is the brand for you.
We’re big fans of the Ellusionist Killer Bees Playing Cards due to their attractive design and because the cards are ideal for sleight-of-hand tricks. These high-quality playing cards have a simple yet stunning yellow honeycomb design, placed upon a jet-black background. Designed exclusively by Ellusionist, these cards are inspired by the superhero story of Brazil’s killer bees, giving the whole pack a dark feel.
The Dan and Dave Ultimate Playing Cards are ideal for collectors looking for a card set that’s unique and a little bit different. If, however, you’re after a somewhat more traditional set of cards, that are slightly cheaper too, then don’t forget to check out the
Dan and Dave Makers Playing Cards instead.
Dan and Dave Ultimate Deck Luxury Playing Cards - Stranger and Stranger Edition
Features
Dan and Dave is an American brand that prides itself in its unique products and artistic flair. The brand offers a wide variety of products, ranging from playing cards, apparel, magic kits, and card and magic accessories. The brand’s bespoke collections add a touch of fun and fashion to the art of magic, whilst still offering products that are of the highest quality.
We wanted to feature the Dan and Dave Ultimate Playing Cards due to their intricate design and luxury quality. These cards were made in collaboration with Stranger & Stranger, providing 54 cards each with a unique, fashion-forward design. Each individual card has its own piece of hand-drawn artwork with a stunning black mirrored design. The case of the product also offers foil accents and embossing for a superior, high-end look (the pack is even hand-sealed using a vintage tax stamp!). These cards are ideal for poker and are printed on premium card stock by the USPCC.
The Chameleon Playing Cards by Expert Playing Card Company are ideal for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their collection or magic tricks. If, however, you’re after a card deck with a cleaner look, then don’t forget to check out the
Joker and the Thief Street Edition deck instead.
Expert Playing Cards Chameleons Luxury Green Metallic Playing Cards by Asi Wind
Features
New York brand Expert Playing Card Company creates high-quality playing cards designed by a variety of artists and publishers. All profits raised by the EPCC flow directly through to the Conjuring Arts, a non-profit organization, to help the brand preserve both historical and cultural materials, and help spread the wonders of magic around the world! With dozens of products to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find a card set that fits your personality perfectly.
We wanted to feature the Expert Playing Cards Chameleon Playing Cards because they were designed by world-renowned magician Asi Wind, and the cards’ great reviews on Amazon, too! This card set was one of the first releases by the brand and features designs from famous magic professionals. Made from Expert’s classic stock, this card set is specifically designed to help users improve performance and their magic skills.
Bicycle’s Stargazer Card Deck is ideal for anyone looking for a set of cards that are truly out of this world! Its astral designs are even hand-drawn! Looking for
KEM plastic playing cards? Bicycle has a wide variety of designs to choose from.
Bicycle Stargazer Deck Poker Size Standard Index Playing Cards
Features
Bicycle is an American-based brand that’s been creating the world’s best playing cards for over 130 years. Bicycle is passionate about bringing people together through games, fun, and great company. Its cards have been used by top professionals across the globe as well as presidents in the Oval Office! If you’re after products that are of the highest quality, then a Bicycle card deck might be just what you’re after!
We wanted to feature the Bicycle Stargazer Card Deck due to the product’s intricately-designed, hand-illustrated cards. This standard-sized poker set deck is hand-forged using chrome foil and a custom seal. The set also features a classic air-cushioned finish for easy shuffling and optimum performance. Printed on Bicycle brand cardstock, this beautiful set uses a variety of colors and designs to make you feel like you’re in another galaxy!
Premium Playing Card Buying Guide — What to Look for in a High End Deck of Luxury Playing Cards
Whether you’re a fan of poker, magic, or have a flair for the arts, luxury playing cards have many uses and come in a huge range of styles and designs. Unlike standard playing cards, luxury playing cards are developed by artists and magic professionals who want to add something a little extra to their decks of cards. Many individuals don’t even use the cards, but instead collect them to put on display. With so many beautiful designs available, we really aren’t surprised!
Before you rush off and purchase just any old set, however, there are a few things you may want to consider beforehand. The set you choose will usually come down to your own personal tastes and styles, but it may be a good idea to have a little think about the exact style you’re after before you start your search. This will make the process much easier.
If you’re looking for a card set to use on your poker table or card shuffler, then you may want to opt for cards with a more simplistic design so you can still differentiate between the suits. Many people prefer to opt for traditional or vintage designs when selecting playing cards to be used in card games. If, however, you’ll be using the cards for magic or for collection purposes then the choice is entirely up to you! Will you go for a dark, mystical design? Or maybe a set featuring your favorite animals? The options are endless!
Video: 12 Visual Card Tricks Anyone Can Do
Easy DIY Magic Card Tricks for Anyone. | Courtesy of Oscar Owen
Price
The cost of your new luxury playing card set is going to depend on a variety of factors. Most luxury card sets will set you back between $6 and $25, depending on what the set is made from and the set’s design. Products at the higher end of this scale tend to be for collecting purposes and therefore have more intricate and detailed designs. Many magicians and famous artists even design their own sets! If a set is handmade, then you can also expect to pay more for these products. Pricier card sets also tend to be made from high-end materials and original card stock from the manufacturer.
This isn’t to say, however, that products at the lower end of this scale don’t work as well; they may just be more suited for card games than magic tricks or collection. Cheaper luxury playing cards are available ($4 or less), but be aware that these products won’t be as durable or last as long.
Features
The features you look out for in your new luxury playing cards will depend entirely on your own personal preferences as well as what you’ll be using the cards for. There are a few features we recommend looking out for, however, to ensure you select the best product for you.
Here are some important features to look out for:
- Printed on premium card stock
- Hand-drawn design
- Air-cushioned finish
Construction and Design
When looking for high-quality luxury playing cards, material is of the utmost importance. Luxury playing cards are usually made from thick card, with some products also featuring plastic. Many brands print their cards on their own specific card stock too; you may want to keep a look out for these products, as they’re normally of very high quality. You’ll also want the cards to be relatively thick to prevent wear and tear, especially if you’ll be using the cards for magic tricks. Many magicians prefer to use cards that don’t feature plastic, as they can be slippery and prevent tricks from working as smoothly.
You may also want to have a think about the size of the cards you’re after as well as the size of the deck itself. If you’re using the cards for card games or poker, then we recommend selecting a deck that’s of standard size, which is usually clearly advertised on the product. You’ll also probably want a set of cards that features all 54 playing cards. If, however, you’re using the cards for tricks or for collection purposes, then the size of the cards and deck isn’t as important and will depend on your own personal preferences. Many collectors select playing cards that feature added or bonus cards, as it can make the set more valuable.
Finally, if you’re a magician in training you may want to opt for products that have an air-cushioned finish. These types of products are perfect for sleight-of-hand tricks and quick movements that will fool your audience! This feature will also protect your cards and prevent damage.
Video: Make Your Own Luxury Close-Up Pad / Card Mat
DIY Luxury Card Mat/ Close-up Pad. | Courtesy of Kaan Akdogan
Performance and Ease of Use
When it comes to caring for your new deck of cards, there really isn’t much to it. You (obviously) won’t want to get the cards wet, so it’s a good idea to invest in a high-quality card case or select a product that already comes with one. Cards are prone to wear and tear after repeated use, especially if you’re using the products for magic purposes. So, it’s a good idea to handle the cards as carefully as possible to prevent this from happening. Selecting products that have a plastic coating will also prevent the cards from damaging easily. If you’re looking for a particularly fancy product, then we recommend looking for products that are made using sustainable products or vegetable-based inks.
Get the Best Luxury Playing Card of 2021!
Hopefully, by now you’ve stumbled across your ideal luxury playing card deck and are now busy practicing your poker or magic skills! If, however, this isn’t the case then don’t you worry! We have purposefully selected brands that have lots of different products to offer; simply browse through their other collections to find the best luxury playing cards for you!
Our Top Choice
Theory 11 Monarch Playing Cards
Best Value
Ellusionist Killer Bees Playing Cards
Dan and Dave Ultimate Playing Cards
Expert Chameleons Playing Cards
Bicycle Stargazer Premium Card Deck
Luxury Playing Card FAQs
What are the best luxury playing cards?
The best luxury playing cards are hand-drawn and printed on premium quality card stock, depending on the maker. Many have air-cushioned finish and come in different sizes. Of course, each pack of luxury playing cards contains 54 cards. Check out our review on the best luxury playing cards here.
How to care for luxury playing cards?
You can care for luxury playing cards by doing and avoiding some things. For instance, you should altogether avoid rubber bands and pant pockets. Instead, store the cards in a tuck box and flat on a surface. Avoid exposing the luxury cards to humidity, sunlight, and heat as that could damage the cards and make them weak. Always wash your hands and dry them before handling your luxury cards.
Are luxury playing cards expensive?
Yes and no. if you find a set of limited edition buying cards, then they will be expensive, going for up to $425. Otherwise, they will cost you on average $8, which isn’t costly. Is it?
