Play your cards right ... and you can make a packet

From board games to jigsaw puzzles and even an ‘ancient’ computer console, how you can turn old entertainments into a family fortune

SMARTPHONE game Pokémon Go has taken the gaming world by storm – but this virtual monster hunt is probably just a passing fad. Here, TOBY WALNE tracks down more traditional games to be played this summer that not only pass the test of time, but can also prove shrewd investments. THE summer holiday is when family and friends come together – often spending time playing cards.

Cards have come a long way since the 18th Century when it was believed they encouraged drunkenness and gambling.

In a bid to keep a lid on unruly behaviour – and raise money – the Government started taxing pack sales. In the early 1800s a pack worth a farthing (quarter of an old penny – about 0.1p) had a tax of two shillings and six old pence (12.5p) imposed on top of the sale price.

From 1828, proof that this tax had been paid was a stamp of approval on the Ace of Spades – ‘Old Fizzle’. Even today this card has more intricate markings than the others.

As a result of the crippling tax, early card decks are scarce – so surviving packs are valuable. A limited set of cards by the Worshipful Company of Makers of Playing Cards from this era can sell for £2,000.

Some modern playing cards can also command high prices. Magician Laura London, from Clapton, East London, is a sleight-of-hand card trick artist and a member of the Magic Circle. She says: ‘A vintage deck of cards can be a great investment.’

Among her collection, Laura has a set of 1970s playing cards called ‘Jerry’s Nugget’ that is worth £500. The cards originally sold for 50 cents – about 38p – and were named after a casino in Las Vegas that had them made.

Originally produced for the gaming table, they are now sought after by sleight-of-hand artists such as Laura because they are thinner than modern cards and have a glossy finish no longer available.

Laura adds: ‘The cards are valuable if in their original packaging. I possess an untouched set but I also have another deck that is worth little as the cards have been opened and played with. It is important not to collect just to make money but for the joy the cards bring.’

She supports the Breathe Magic programme which uses cards to help children with motor disorders or suffering some form of paralysis. It also helps stroke victims. Guy’s and St Thomas’ Charity backs the scheme.

Card games such as Snap, Happy Families and Whot! can be valuable if they were made in the late 19th Century – because of their rarity. Packs in top condition can command prices of up to £100.