This product is a complete set of 100 antique 1908 Wills cigarette cards featuring European royalty. These original UK issue cards are presented in plastic sleeves and are from the pre-2nd World War era. A collectable item perfect for enthusiasts of tobacciana and smoking supplies, these cards showcase historic figures and themes from the United Kingdom's past. Ideal for collectors looking to add a piece of British history to their collection.
A full set of 100 original 1908 W.D. & H.O. Wills "Portraits of European Royalty" cigarette cards is a valuable collector's item, with an auction valuation for a set in a binder reaching around £120. The value is highly dependent on the cards' condition and presentation.
Product Details
The "Portraits of European Royalty" set was issued by W.D. & H.O. Wills in 1908.
Set Size: The complete set consists of 100 cards, sometimes split into two series of 50.
Content: Each card features a portrait of a member of Europe's royal families.
Reverse Side: Each card has a descriptive text on the reverse.
Condition: The condition is the most important factor for value, with cards that have been kept loose in plastic sleeves or "tipped in" without adhesive being more valuable than those that were glued into an album. These are Mint Condition
Rarity: The cards are considered scarce and collectable items due to their age.
Purchase Options & Valuations
Full sets and individual cards are available from online retailers and auction houses, with prices varying based on condition and the vendor. An auction valuation for a set in a binder was reported at £120.
W.D. & H.O. Wills issued the "Portraits of European Royalty" cigarette card series in 1908.
Key Facts
Total Cards: The series consists of 100 cards in total, often collected as two distinct sets of 50 (Series 1 and Series 2).
Subject Matter: The cards feature pre-World War I photographic portraits of members of European royal houses.
Notable Figures Included:
King Edward VII (Card #1)
Prince John (1905–1919)
Alexander of Teck