Smith-Waite Centennial Tarot Deck

Smith-Waite Centennial Tarot Deck – A Tribute to the Origins of Modern Tarot

About this deck

The Smith-Waite Centennial Tarot Deck is a carefully crafted reproduction of the original tarot deck illustrated by Pamela Colman Smith in 1909 under the guidance of Arthur Edward Waite. This deck is a true tribute to the founders of modern tarot, authentically bringing to life the original atmosphere and style. The soft, muted colors chosen by “Pixie” herself give the deck a rustic, historical look with timeless strength.

Background and imagery

Pamela Colman Smith’s pictorial style—full of symbolism and human expression—makes this deck not only visually compelling but also highly accessible for intuitive readings. This special edition includes four additional cards with reproductions of Pixie’s other artworks: Much Ado About Nothing, The Gates of Dreamland, Christmas Carol, and Once in a Dream. These additions make this deck a spiritual tool and a true collector’s item.

Practical use

Working with this deck connects you to the classical roots of tarot. Its symbolism is clear, layered, and familiar to anyone who has used Rider-Waite-based decks. The softer tones make it comfortable for longer sessions, encouraging deep, reflective interpretations. It feels like a bridge between past and present—a deck that continually invites exploration and intuitive growth.

Are these cards suitable for beginners?

This deck is an excellent starting point for beginners. The imagery is meaningful but not overwhelming, and the traditional structure provides a solid foundation to learn and understand tarot. It encourages both emotional and intellectual engagement—ideal for those taking their first steps into tarot.

Materials and design

The cards are printed on sturdy, smooth cardstock with rounded corners. The color palette is authentically muted, just as Pamela Colman Smith intended. The set contains 84 cards: the 78 traditional tarot cards and four bonus art cards. The card size is 70 x 120 mm and the total weight is 360 g. The deck comes in a compact box without a guidebook.

Authors

Pamela Colman Smith & Arthur Edward Waite

Pamela Colman Smith, affectionately known as “Pixie,” was a British-Jamaican artist and storyteller with a deep sense of mysticism and visual language. Together with esoteric scholar Arthur Edward Waite, she created the most iconic tarot deck in history. Their collaboration continues to influence thousands of decks worldwide.

Key features

• Number of cards: 84 (including 4 art cards)
• Size: 70 x 120 mm
• Weight: 360 g
• Publisher: U.S. Games Systems Inc.
• Language: English
• ISBN: 9781572817629

Order now

Want to experience tarot in its most authentic form? Order the Smith-Waite Centennial Tarot Deck now and work with a piece of tarot history that still lives in every reading.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

• Does this deck come with a guidebook?
  No, this edition does not include a guidebook. It’s perfect for those with some tarot knowledge or who use external resources.
• Are the four extra cards used in readings?
  No, they are art prints included as a tribute to Pixie’s other work. They are meant for inspiration or display, not interpretation.
• What makes this different from a regular Rider-Waite deck?
  This version reproduces the original 1909 artwork and color palette, offering a more historical and authentic experience.
• Is this deck suitable for professional readers?
  Yes, many professionals use this version because of its clear visuals, symbolic strength, and historical importance.
• Why choose this over a modern variation?
  Its timeless simplicity and muted elegance evoke a classic tarot feel, appreciated by readers who value tradition.