American Embassy Paris Appraisal

American Embassy Paris Double Deck Playing Cards in Presentation Box

This item is a vintage double-deck set of playing cards issued by the American Embassy in Paris. The cards feature a vibrant red card back design, embellished with a gold-foil Great Seal of the United States and the inscription "AMERICAN EMBASSY PARIS" in elegant gold serif typography. The decks are housed in a coordinating rectangular red felt or velvet-textured presentation box. The lid of the box is similarly adorned with the gold-stamped Great Seal and the embassy's location. Physically, the cards appear to have standard bridge or poker dimensions with rounded corners and high-quality cardstock construction, likely featuring an air-cushion or linen finish. The box itself is a two-piece design with a notched front for easy opening, displaying a gold-toned interior base. In terms of condition, there is visible surface wear to the red flocking of the presentation box, including some lint accumulation and minor flattening of the velvet pile, consistent with age and storage. The cards themselves appear to be in good, possibly unplayed condition, though some minor edge wear may be present. This set likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century, representing a specialized piece of diplomatic memorabilia or 'white house' style government giftware. The craftsmanship is high, indicative of items produced for official government distribution and formal diplomatic entertainment.