Rare Triumphs: a 78 card alternative old-style tarot

by Ian Cumpstey

Rare Triumphs is a 78-card deck by Ian Cumpstey, an extended edition of his Pike and Clover playing cards. It features a trump suit inspired by the early history of tarot, blending playing card traditions with a tarot-like structure.

traditional

78 cards

Key Features

78-card deck, aligning with standard tarot count
Extended edition of the Pike and Clover playing cards
Trump suit inspired by early tarot history
Designed in an 'old-style' aesthetic

Who It's For

This deck is suitable for collectors interested in the history and evolution of playing cards and tarot, particularly those who appreciate older, traditional styles. It would also appeal to readers seeking an alternative tarot experience that deviates from standard Rider-Waite-Smith or Thoth systems, offering a unique blend of playing card and early tarot influences.

Kickstarter · Launched Sep 2018 · View campaign

Last updated April 14, 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cards are in the Rare Triumphs deck?

The Rare Triumphs deck contains 78 cards, which is the standard count for a full tarot deck, including both Major and Minor Arcana.

What is the inspiration behind the Rare Triumphs deck?

The deck is an extended edition of Ian Cumpstey's Pike and Clover playing cards, with its trump suit specifically inspired by the early history and development of tarot. This combines traditional playing card elements with a tarot-like structure.

Is Rare Triumphs a traditional tarot deck?

Rare Triumphs is described as an 'alternative old-style tarot' that extends a playing card deck with a tarot-inspired trump suit. While it has 78 cards like a traditional tarot, its roots in playing cards and 'old-style' approach suggest it offers a unique interpretation rather than strictly adhering to modern tarot systems like RWS.