Carreras Ltd Cigarette Cards

Carreras Ltd. cigarette cards have a rich history within the realm of tobacco-related collectibles. Here's an overview of their evolution:

Origins:

  • Carreras Ltd. was a British tobacco company founded in 1788 by Spanish immigrant Don José Carreras Ferrer.
  • Initially focused on cigars, Carreras expanded its product line to include cigarettes as their popularity grew in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Introduction of Cigarette Cards:

  • Carreras began including illustrated cards in their cigarette packets as a promotional tool to differentiate their brand and attract customers.
  • These cards were typically small in size and featured a wide range of subjects, similar to those produced by other tobacco companies.

Distinctive Themes and Series:

  • Carreras cigarette cards covered diverse themes, appealing to a broad audience of smokers and collectors.
  • Some notable series included "Film Stars," "Gems of French History," "Wild Animals," "Famous Women," and "Footballers."

Artistic Design and Quality:

  • Carreras was known for the quality of its cigarette cards, often featuring detailed illustrations and informative text on the reverse side.
  • The company employed talented artists and designers to create visually appealing cards that would attract collectors and enhance the appeal of their brand.