✅ SOLVED 19th Century Political Cards?

[UnderMiner]

I found these many years ago along with many other paper and cardboard artifacts dating from the late 1800's and very early 1900's.
Never could figure out what these were. Some kind of political trading card perhaps? Any ideas?

Each card features a politician from a different state. Each about the size of an index card.


David Bennett Hill served as New York State Governor from 1885 to 1891.
Could these cards be from that time period? If so what were they for?

 

[diggummup]

Nothing on the backs I presume? Are they thick like a postcard or thinner?

 

[Bramblefind]

I think they may be Tobacco / Cigarette trading cards of State Governors issued by W. Duke & Sons circa 1888. Here's a related eBay listing-

1888 Governors Coats of Arms w Duke Sons Pictures 48 Tobacco Cards | eBay

It looks like the W. Duke & Sons logo has been cut off yours - here are some others held at the Duke Library:

Governors, Coats of Arms - Loose Cards (D0198) - Emergence of Advertising in America - Duke Libraries

 

[diggummup]

I think they may be Tobacco / Cigarette trading cards of State Governors issued by W. Duke & Sons circa 1888. Here's a related eBay listing-

1888 Governors Coats of Arms w Duke Sons Pictures 48 Tobacco Cards | eBay

It looks like the W. Duke & Sons logo has been cut off yours - here are some others held at the Duke Library:

Governors, Coats of Arms - Loose Cards (D0198) - Emergence of Advertising in America - Duke Libraries

I'd say you nailed it Bramble!

 

[UnderMiner]

I think they may be Tobacco / Cigarette trading cards of State Governors issued by W. Duke & Sons circa 1888. Here's a related eBay listing-

1888 Governors Coats of Arms w Duke Sons Pictures 48 Tobacco Cards | eBay

It looks like the W. Duke & Sons logo has been cut off yours - here are some others held at the Duke Library:

Governors, Coats of Arms - Loose Cards (D0198) - Emergence of Advertising in America - Duke Libraries

Cool, 1888! That's awesome! Glad I kept them in plastic!