From Empire to Commonwealth
Flags, locations and admission dates of 52 Commonwealth countries.
Each card shows the flag of a Commonwealth country, its geographical location on the globe and the dates when that country became first part of the British Empire and then a member of the Commonwealth. The names of the countries appear in red on the black suits and black on the red suits. The two extra cards cover countries (Hong Kong and USA) once part of the British Empire or Commonwealth. The Union Flag (or Union Jack) and the Commonwealth logo make up most of the back design.
Some useful facts on these cards for those who like doing quizzes. Note that countries which have joined the Commonwealth since 1995 are not included. Prior to that date, there were 52 countries in the Commonwealth plus Hong Kong.
Above: ‘From Empire to Commonwealth’ playing cards made by France Cartes for Collectable Cards, Harrow, UK, c1998. 52 cards + 1 Joker + 2 extra cards in clear plastic box. Size: 58 x 89 mm.
By Roddy Somerville
Member since May 31, 2022
Roddy started collecting stamps on his 8th birthday. In 1977 he joined the newly formed playing-card department at Stanley Gibbons in London before setting up his own business in Edinburgh four years later. His collecting interests include playing cards, postcards, stamps (especially playing cards on stamps) and sugar wrappers. He is a Past President of the Scottish Philatelic Society, a former Chairman of the IPCS, a Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards and Curator of the WCMPC’s collection of playing cards. He lives near Toulouse in France.
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