Written by the charming Alfred Trumble and making its grand debut in 1882, Faro Exposed is the definitive guide to America's crooked card game of choice. It delves into the origins, rules, and chequered history of Faro, alongside the cunning tactics employed by card cheats to turn the tables.
Long before Erdnase made his mark, Faro Exposed unveiled riffle stacking and gaffed dealing boxes, along with a cornucopia of sneaky moves and sleights designed to separate players from their cash in a game that, until poker stormed the scene, was the nation’s favourite pastime.
Among the delightful tricks discussed are rough, sanded, rounded, and stripped cards; dodgy faro boxes; and dodges with names that sound like they belong in a pub quiz—"The Coffee Mill," "Squared Sights and Tie Ups," "Horse Hair," and a whole host of other card-sharping shenanigans.
The author doesn’t mince words about the seedy nature of faro on page 47: "There is not in the United States to-day one single faro-banker who is willing and content to confine himself to the strict percentage of an honest game. They practice every trick, cheat, fraud, device, contrivance, skin and scheme known to the 'trade,' save and except that which they themselves do not know. Nothing but the fear of detection will prevent them from taking every possible advantage of their customers."
Despite its undeniable significance, this gem remains virtually unknown today—likely due to the fact that only three copies still exist (not even the Library of Congress can boast one).
But fear not! This deluxe, numbered, facsimile edition is now up for grabs for collectors, scholars, and crafty technicians alike.
Featuring an introduction by the esteemed card expert, Jason England, this deluxe hardbound volume measures 6" x 9", packs 98 pages in sturdy sewn binding, and comes with a full-colour recreation of the original wrapper. All text has been digitally re-screened and enhanced, accompanied by charming woodcut illustrations. Only 500 copies are available, so grab yours before they vanish like a magician's rabbit!
