When The Russell & Morgan Printing Company first began production of their Texan ‘45 brand in 1889, they knew nothing summoned the spirits of the Lone Star State better than the history of playing cards in America. From the eastern Piney Forest, across the Rolling Plains, all the way to the banks of the Rio Grande, Texans loved playing cards. They still do today. There couldn’t be a state more associated with their use. Texas Hold ‘Em, anyone?

In 1889, the RMPC was a soon-to-be playing card juggernaut but still in its beginning phases. They had been manufacturing US Playing Cards for eight years, and their product range was constantly expanding. By then, their brands had already encompassed many popular regions, occupations and interests. Steamboats, Sportsman’s, Tigers, Army & Navy, Congress, Capital, Tourists, Bicycle, Cabinet, were all brands keyed into specific demographics, and they all made perfect sense in the eastern United States.

The intended purpose of Texan ‘45s was to fill a deficiency in the market. People wanted an affordable playing card like Tigers/Steamboats but better quality like Bicycle. The RMPC answered the call with a bold new brand designed to fit in- between. Texan playing cards were advertised as “Triple Strength” and “Made especially to meet the demands of players desiring cards with a higher finish.” Texans were also superior in “strength and quality of stock” and would “outwear any similar cards.”

Unlike most brands under the US Playing Cards banner like 606, 707 or 808, Texan playing cards were given a meaningful number for identification and ordering purposes. The number 45 had long been associated with Texas because, in 1845, Texas was annexed into the United States of America and became the 28th state.