Playing cards have always been more than just a tool for games—they’re tiny canvases that capture stories, history, and artistry. And in the world of collectible decks, Fulton’s Noir Limited Edition USPCC Playing Cards stand out as one of the most cinematic and artistic releases of the past decade.
If you’re a fan of Film Noir, a collector of limited edition playing cards, or someone who appreciates hand-drawn art decks with real character, Fulton’s Noir is a deck you don’t just own—you experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the story behind the deck, its design highlights, collectability, and why it deserves a place in your collection.
The Origins of Fulton’s Noir
The Fulton’s Noir deck is the long-awaited follow-up to the legendary Clip Joint deck released in 2011. At the time, Clip Joint was groundbreaking—its gritty cinematic vibe and innovative design redefined what a themed deck of cards could be.
Fast forward a decade, and the Noir returns in full force. Designed in collaboration with Brad Fulton, Dan & Dave Buck, Daniel Phillips, and Ethan Kowaleski, Fulton’s Noir captures the same film noir aesthetic that made Clip Joint an instant classic, but with ten more years of refinement and creative maturity.
Why Film Noir? 🎥
Film Noir is a cinematic style born in the 1940s and 1950s, defined by its moody black-and-white visuals, hard shadows, trench coats, and smoky jazz bars. Think of Humphrey Bogart, femme fatales, and detectives narrating their own tragedies.
The Fulton’s Noir deck leans heavily into this aesthetic, with dark shading, dramatic lines, and a sense of mystery built into every card. This isn’t just a deck of cards—it’s a pocket-sized film reel.
Design Details That Make Fulton’s Noir Special
Hand-Illustrated Artwork
- Artist Daniel Phillips spent a full year crafting the illustrations for the deck.
- The card back alone is a study in advanced shading, creating depth and texture that feels alive.
- Unlike many decks that simply “invert” colors for alternate editions, Noir and White Jazz are each individually illustrated to suit their tone.
The Tuck Case: A Work of Art in Itself
- Designed by Ethan Kowaleski
- Foil embossed typography gives the box a luxurious, metallic sheen.
- Die-cut elliptical window reveals the card back design within, offering a preview of the artwork before you even open it.
Customization in the Cards
- Recolored Bicycle-style court cards fit seamlessly into the noir theme.
- Unique pips on number cards—one in each card is replaced with an intricate design, echoing the innovation seen in Clip Joint.
- Standard poker size, 52 cards + 2 Jokers + extras.
Premium Stock & Printing
- Printed by The United States Playing Card Company (USPCC).
- Uses crushed casino-grade stock (thin stock) for smooth handling.
- Modern cut for sleeker shuffles and spreads—ideal for both collectors and performers.
Fulton’s Noir vs. White Jazz 🎭
When Brad Fulton originally pitched the idea of Smoke & Mirrors to Dan & Dave, it was about creating two contrasting decks in black and white. Fulton’s Noir (black) and White Jazz (white) echo that same duality.
- Noir (Black): Dark, brooding, mysterious—perfect for Film Noir purists.
- White Jazz (White): Bright, modern, sharp—ideal for cardists who want visual contrast in flourishes.
Owning both decks side by side is like owning a cinematic double feature.
Why Collectors Love Fulton’s Noir
1. Limited Edition Run
Only 2,500 decks were printed, making it a highly collectible piece of playing card history.
2. Nostalgia Factor
It’s a direct successor to Clip Joint, a deck that already has legendary status in the community.
3. Cross-Appeal
- Collectors: Beautifully packaged and scarce.
- Magicians: Perfect for dramatic reveals in a dark, mysterious performance.
- Cardists: Crisp handling and visual contrast for flourishes.
- Gamers: A classy way to elevate poker night.
4. Hollywood Aesthetic
For fans of classic cinema, this deck is like holding an era in your hands.
Where Fulton’s Noir Fits in the Playing Card World
Fulton’s Noir represents the sweet spot where artistry meets usability. Unlike purely ornamental decks that sit unopened on shelves, this one’s printed on professional-grade USPCC stock, meaning it’s designed to handle real play, cardistry, and magic—without sacrificing collectability.
If you compare it to other iconic decks:
| Feature | Fulton’s Noir | Clip Joint | Smoke & Mirrors | Modern Art Decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Theme | Film Noir | Crime/Noir | Minimalist | Varies |
| Edition Size | 2,500 | 5,000+ | Multiple Runs | Varies |
| Tuck Box | Embossed + Die Cut | Embossed | Minimal Foil | Mixed |
| Handling | Crushed Casino | Standard | Crushed Stock | Mixed |
| Collector Value | High | Legendary | High | Moderate |
FAQ: Fulton’s Noir Playing Cards
Q: How many Fulton’s Noir decks were made?
A: Just 2,500 decks worldwide, making them highly collectible.
Q: Who designed the deck?
A: The artwork was hand-illustrated by Daniel Phillips, with the tuck case by Ethan Kowaleski, produced by Dan & Dave in collaboration with Brad Fulton.
Q: Are the cards marked?
A: While not a full marked deck, some cards feature special design details and custom pips inspired by Clip Joint’s innovations.
Q: Can I use this deck for magic and cardistry?
A: Absolutely. The crushed casino stock makes it smooth for flourishes and sleights, while the cinematic vibe elevates performances.
Q: What’s the difference between Noir and White Jazz?
A: Noir is black and moody, while White Jazz is bright and sharp. Both were hand-illustrated separately, not simply inverted in color.
Final Thoughts: Why You Need Fulton’s Noir 🎩
Whether you’re a collector, magician, or cardist, Fulton’s Noir Limited Edition Playing Cards are more than just a deck—they’re a cinematic statement piece. Every detail, from the tuck case to the custom pips, reflects years of thought and artistry.
With only 2,500 decks printed, they won’t be around forever. This is one of those decks that people look back on in ten years and wish they’d bought when they had the chance.
👉 Don’t miss your shot to own this piece of playing card history. Get your Fulton’s Noir deck today on eBay: Buy Now
https://www.ebay.com/itm/127212657684
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