El Ferrocarril
Naipe El Ferrocarril made by La Cubana, S.A. (Fabrica de Naipes El Aguila), Mexico, c.1960
Apparently these designs, based on traditional Mexican culture, had only recently been introduced into the range. The coin symbol has been substituted by an Aztec calendar, and the Sotas are female, in local costume.
Above: Naipe El Ferrocarril by La Cubana S.A., Mexico, c.2000. 40 cards in box. Reverse: cactus flowers.
By Simon Wintle
Member since February 01, 1996
I am the founder of The World of Playing Cards (est. 1996), a website dedicated to the history, artistry and cultural significance of playing cards and tarot. Over the years I have researched various areas of the subject, acquired and traded collections and contributed as a committee member of the IPCS and graphics editor of The Playing-Card journal. Having lived in Chile, England, Wales, and now Spain, these experiences have shaped my work and passion for playing cards. Amongst my achievements is producing a limited-edition replica of a 17th-century English pack using woodblocks and stencils—a labour of love. Today, the World of Playing Cards is a global collaborative project, with my son Adam serving as the technical driving force behind its development. His innovative efforts have helped shape the site into the thriving hub it is today. You are warmly invited to become a contributor and share your enthusiasm.
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