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Collecting cigarette cards
Often beautifully illustrated, cigarette cards soon became popular with collectors after their first appearance in 1871. American tobacco company Allen and Ginter were the first to use them to protect cigarettes from damage, and in the UK, WD and HO Wills followed suit in 1887. The first series of photographic cards issued in 1894 by Ogdens of Liverpool, assured their popularity as collectibles and throughout the world, tobacco manufacturers enthusiastically issued them to encourage brand loyalty
Understanding the value
Many collectors are happy to build up their collections for the love of collecting and the fascinating insight these cards give into social history. To appreciate the factors affecting the value of cigarette cards as collectors items, requires a detailed knowledge of the history of individual manufacturers and the cards they issued. The condition of cards is the most important factor; cards which have been stuck down, even in a specially designed album, or are damaged, will have little value. The age and rarity of the card, its manufacturer, the title of the set and the image, will all contribute to its market value.
Getting expert advice
Our experts are happy to value your collection, and to share their specialist knowledge. We understand the effort and enthusiasm needed to compile a collection, and appreciate the personal value it can have, so we are happy to provide free advice about buying or selling in our auctions. We can also advice on private treaty sales or probate and insurance matters. Our aim is to help you make an informed decision without any obligation.
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New Barn, The Estate Yard, Eridge Green, Tunbridge Wells, TN3 9JR
Phone: 01892 529898
Fax: 01892 619197
Email: info@tandtauctions.com