AMW Auctions
Lot 479
Collection of Vintage Cigarette Cards – Various Themes (1930s-1950s)This lot features several distinct collections of vintage cigarette cards covering various thematic series issued by renowned manufacturers such as John Player & Sons, Churchman’s Cigarettes, Mills, and Gallaher Ltd. These cards represent a historical cross-section of the mid-20th-century collectible cigarette card era. All cards are standard-sized and bear vivid illustrations or photographs, along with descriptive text on the reverse.#### Notable Themes and Features:1. **Famous British Ships by Mills (1952)** A collection of cards showcasing notable British maritime vessels, including illustrations of the "Golden Hind," "Mayflower," and "First Ark Royal." Brand: Mills, under the Amalgamated Tobacco Corporation, South Africa. Reverse sides feature detailed descriptors, credited to illustrator Edgar Pullin, S.M.A.2. **Cycling Series by John Player & Sons (1939)** A complete set of 50 cards chronicling the evolution of bicycles, including "Macmillan's Velocipede," "Lady’s Pedestrian Hobby Horse," and "Singer Tricycle." The illustrations feature historic details and cycling innovations, with text focusing on technical and historical aspects.3. **Cricketers Series by John Player & Sons (1934)** Cards depicting prominent cricketers in full-colour lithographic portraits, such as G.O. Allen (Middlesex) and J. Arnold (Hampshire). Reverse texts provide biographical information and player statistics. Notable for its historical value in commemorating cricket legends.4. **Butterflies and Moths by Gallaher Ltd. (1930s)** Exquisitely illustrated cards featuring species such as the "Grizzled Skipper," "Peacock," and "Purple Emperor." Produced by Gallaher Ltd., London and Belfast, the series comprises 48 cards. Each card provides intricate artwork and botanical details, appealing to collectors of natural history.5. **Motorsport Pioneers by Churchman’s Cigarettes** A series focused on motorsport legends and vehicles, including notable figures like Captain G.E.T. Eyston and John Cobb. Sepia photographs are accompanied by descriptions of automobiles and land-speed records, highlighting the golden age of motor racing.### Summary:These collections exemplify key historical and cultural subjects distributed as promotional items during the early-to-mid 20th century. Each set is a remarkable piece of ephemera with strong appeal to collectors of cigarette cards, historical memorabilia, and themed collections focused on sports, exploration, vehicles, or natural history.