52 Plus Joker (52+J) is an American non-profit social organization focused on playing cards, founded in 1985 by Phil Bollhagen, Bob Harrison, and Lenny Schneir.[1][2] The club has about 1,000 members.[3]
In addition to hosting annual conventions, 52 Plus Joker publishes a quarterly newsletter called Clear The Decks,[4][5][6] originally created by Bollhagen,[7] and has released a monthly digital magazine called Card Culture since late 2014.[8][9][10] The club also produces annual custom playing card decks sold exclusively to members.[11][3]
52 Plus Joker merged with the Chicago Playing Card Collectors Club in 2018.[12]
The club's founding president was Lenny Schneir. Tom Dawson previously served as president,[13] as did Ray Hartz.[14] As of 2024[update] the club's president is Lee Asher.[15]
Annual conventions
52 Plus Joker has held conventions annually since 1987.[16]
^Hyman, Tony (1994). Trash Or Treasure: How to Find the Best Buyers of Antiques, Collectibles, and Other Undiscovered Treasures. Treasure Hunt Publications. ISBN9780937111031.
^Wastrack, Harry (2005). Price Guide for Collectable Playing Cards. Xlibris. ISBN1413493300.
^Meikle, Margaret (1992). Dear Answer Lady: a Compendium of Astonishing Facts and Arcane Origins for the Passionately Curious and Easily Distracted. Vancouver: Douglas & McIntyre. p. 125. ISBN9781550540499.
^Dawson, Judy (March 2007). "The Queen in Court". Clear the Decks. 21 (1).
^Gold, Anita (November 14, 1988). "Value of Antique Cards Depends on Many Factors". The Lewiston Journal. No. 125. p. 8B.
