Deutsche Einheitskarte, introduced in 1915 – a central document of Imperial German playing card culture.
The Deutsche Einheitskarte was issued during the First World War as the official military Skat deck. It was designed to promote visual unity, clarity and national symbolism.
The artwork by Hermann Petzold depicts prominent personalities and military motifs of the era, reflecting the social and political atmosphere of wartime Germany. Original decks from this early production phase are today rare testimonies of cultural and printing history.
The iconography, the period tax stamp and the overall condition clearly place this example within the years of the First World War.
Details:
Original Deutsche Einheitskarte, dated 1915
Manufacturer: Vereinigte Stralsunder Spielkartenfabriken AG, Stralsund
Designer: Hermann Petzold
32 cards, German suits
Card size: approx. 58 × 102 mm
Tax stamp: Deutsches Reich No. 4 – Dreißig Pfennig (1903–1919)
Depicted figures: Kaiser Wilhelm II, Hindenburg, Ludendorff
Additional motifs include Imperial Navy warships
Repeated imperial imagery on the Aces symbolising state unity
Condition:
Very good, exceptionally well-preserved condition
Cards appear barely played
Clean paper, sharp edges
Original gilt edges (gold edging) – warm shine, well preserved
Natural, authentic age patina
Delivered in undamaged transparent protective sleeve
Original, unique historical piece
This deck has been professionally examined and carefully stored.
Shipping is securely packed with DHL including tracking.
