All of my collectables are special, and the vast majority have been collected in person when I have approached artists. Many have stories and special memories that should be shared. In this new series of blog posts, I will talk about my collectables, stories, and special memories.
The actual interactions with artists are often just as meaningful and memorable as the signed collectables. This week is I share details about my favourite signed playing cards.
Signed Playing Cards
I began collecting signed playing cards about four years ago. To date, I now have just over 100 cards. Most of these cards have been signed in person, and they hold a very special place in my collection. Each card is stored in a folder, marked with the details of the magician who signed it and the date.
While I appreciate every single card that has been signed, some of course stand out for different reasons as a learning or a good memory.
The majority of my signed cards are signed to me in person (99%), with just a couple being signed via eBay. While many people prefer non-personalised cards, I personally prefer them written to me. Cards with more white space and signed with a black pen are best.
My favourites are as follows, and they are cases of excellent signed cards signed with special memories:
Steven Frayne
Some great photos were taken, but the magic highlight was undoubtedly getting the signed card from Steven. I had waited a long time to see Steven perform, and I was not disappointed. Seeing the show this year was a massive highlight, but meeting him and getting a signed card was even better. It was a great magical memory and one of the most amazing opportunities to meet this famed magician.
A true gent who took time after each of his London shows to meet his audience and chat. Possibly the biggest highlight ever meeting a magician.
Richard Cadell
Not only a great signed card that includes Richard and Sooty, but I got signed Sooty and Sweep by Richard as well. An amazing memory and addition to my collection. Richard is also a member of the IBM British Ring and often does performances of his Sooty show which I have yet to see. Hopefully one day soon J can see a live Sooty show. The fact that this card also has Sooty makes it all the more special.
Aaron Crow
Greeting Aaron when he arrived at the IBM convention in 2024 was an amazing memory and a favourite moment for me. I was volunteering as a steward and I was able to help him on arrival. I also got to see him perform, which was incredible. Chatting with him for 5 minutes is a great memory and he is a magical hero of mine.
Joel M and Tom The Elderfield
At BMC 2023 I was able to meet Joel and Tom. I had a decent chat with them for about 5 minutes and was pleased to get signed cards. I had followed their work for a while so was good to meet them. They were very friendly so we spoke about everything from magic, Blue Peter, The Traitors and even cats!
Marc Oberon
Last year I finally was able to meet this legend and not only get a signed card and watch him perform, I was able to watch his lecture later in the year as well. A very skilled and talented magician. Hopefully I will get to see him perform again soon.
Hudson & Hudson
I was lucky to interview Alan about 5 years ago for my website. I have always enjoyed watching the Hudson’s and I was finally able to see them perform last year. An excellent show and great signed card. They are touring next year so hopefully I will get to see them again soon.
Harry Merlin Piper
Keep your eye on this young chap. A rising star and excellent all round entertainer and magician. I have seen him perform on a number of occasions and he performed at FISM this year. This card and pic was at BMC 2025.
Ben Hart
I have seen a couple of Bens shows and I have tickets to see him again in October this year. A few years back I was able to to stay behind after a performance at the Curve and I was also able to get him to sign his book as well as a playing card. As a bonus, he was with Neil Kelso who I was also able to get sign the book who co wrote it.
Fay Presto
I have had the opportunity to meet and see Fay perform several times. She has to feature on this list as her signature is amazing with the top hat built into her autograph. A great card to own.
And for a little more information about my signed playing card collection, I recorded the below last year.
