Skat Deck, Advertising – Hanover Tram Freight Service, Altenburg & Stralsund Playing Cards, French Suited Deck, 1930s

A piece of living history – this original advertising Skat deck “Straßenbahngüterdienst Hannover” dates from the late 1930s and was produced by the Vereinigte Altenburger und Stralsunder Spielkarten-Fabriken A.-G. (ASS Altenburg, Thuringia).

The deck features the classic French-suited design with finely colored court figures in vivid red, green and yellow tones. The card backs display a decorative advertising motif of the Hanover tram freight service in a striking orange design with characteristic Art Deco charm. These distinctive backs make the deck an appealing advertising collectible.

The Ace of Hearts carries the tax stamp “Deutsches Reich Nr. 90”, accompanied by the period imperial eagle symbol – an authentic detail confirming the historical classification of this deck as an original from the late 1930s.

The original tuck box printed “Überlandwerke und Straßenbahnen Hannover A.G., Ihmestraße 7” shows light wear at the opening edge and some rubbing and edge wear, but remains stable and intact overall.
The cards themselves show light signs of play but are in very good, well-preserved condition – a fine example of the craftsmanship of Altenburg playing card production from that era.

With its charming illustrations, historical advertising design and nostalgic color palette, this set is a genuine time capsule of the 1930s – ideal for collectors of vintage playing cards, enthusiasts of Hanover transport history, or as an authentic decorative piece with character.

Details

Manufacturer: Vereinigte Altenburger und Stralsunder Spielkarten-Fabriken A.-G. (ASS Altenburg, Thuringia)

Advertising edition: Überlandwerke und Straßenbahnen Hannover A.G.

Suit system: French-suited deck

Period: circa 1936–1939

Card size: approx. 91 mm × 59 mm

Card backs: advertising design “Straßenbahngüterdienst Hannover” in orange/white with transport motif

Card condition: lightly played, very well preserved

Box condition: rubbed with minor wear and a small opening edge defect, but stable

Special features

Original advertising print of the Hanover tram company

Historical ASS Altenburg production

Tax stamp “Deutsches Reich Nr. 90” (typical authenticity marker of the late 1930s)

Classic French-suited design with finely colored courts

Decorative collector’s piece connected to transport and advertising history

The deck has been carefully inspected, cleanly stored and remains in the condition described above.

Shipping is carried out carefully packaged with DHL and tracking.
If you have any questions or would like additional detail photographs, I will be happy to assist.