Schnapsen Cards – Altenburg Playing Cards, Württemberg Pattern, German Suited Deck, 20 Cards, 66, Mariage, Single Piece – 1920s

An authentic trick-taking card deck from the Weimar Republic era: These original Schnapsen cards from the 1920s represent the traditional card-playing culture of Southern Germany and Austria. Produced by the Vereinigte Altenburger und Stralsunder Spielkartenfabriken, this reduced 20-card system combines functional clarity with the distinctive Württemberg double-figure design.

Original Schnapsen cards, 20-card deck – classic trick-taking format

Manufacturer: Vereinigte Altenburger und Stralsunder Spielkartenfabriken (VASS), Altenburg

Dating: 1920s (German Reich tax stamp, approx. 1923–1929)

Pattern: Württemberg double-figure

Suit system: German suited deck (Acorns, Leaves, Hearts, Bells)

Card composition: Ace, Ten, King, Ober, Unter in each suit

Size: approx. 57 × 100 mm, with rounded corners

Back design: blue/grey checkered

Packaging: transparent case (undamaged)

Game variants and usage:

Schnapsen (classic 2-player game)

Three-player Schnapsen and Bauern-Schnapsen

Sixty-Six (66) – closely related and playable with adaptation

Mariage – historical predecessor of modern trick-taking games

Elfern and other regional trick-taking variations

Condition:

complete

age-related patina with minor creases

very attractive and collectible overall condition

played, but well-preserved and stable

This reduced 20-card system reflects a style of gameplay focused on tactics, memory, and controlled trick play—typical for card culture in the southern German and Alpine regions during the 1920s. The versatility across multiple game variants makes such Schnapsen decks particularly appealing to both collectors and active players today.

The deck has been inspected, carefully stored, and is in the condition described above.
Shipping is handled securely with DHL and tracking.
If you have any questions or would like additional detailed photos, feel free to get in touch. This is an original one-of-a-kind item.