Created for the London and North Eastern Railway company as part of the Beautiful Britain Series of playing cards, this was a way of promoting the company to the wider public before the days of social media. Interestingly, this humble everyday item bears evidence of social, political and economic strife, as unlike earlier packs in the series which were coloured, the effects of the General Strike in 1926 meant Waddington's issued sepia or blue-green on a light background to cut back on production costs. The box remains intact although it is missing the top flap. It has taken on a grubby appearance due to decades of handling which has created the vintage appearance. The blue design and text is art deco in style on a pale green background. On the back, a card is glued on to show a scene of Harrogate based on an etching of Frank Henry Mason. The pack consists of 52 standard sized cards (the jokers are missing). On the whole they are in good condition considering their age and almost 100 years of use. An item that's ideal for any railway enthusiast, a collector of playing cards or for someone with a connection to Harrogate.  

Date: c.1927-1929
Maker: John Waddington Ltd
Made in Britain

Dimensions: 6cm x 9cm x 2cm