The American Matchcover Archive


A digital repository dedicated to the conservation and celebration of the American matchbook cover — a pocket-sized canvas that once served as the primary advertising medium for 20th century commerce. 

We hope to honor this everyday, utilitarian item not merely as ephemera, but as a significant artifact of graphic design history. 

Explore the Archive





Aquamarine Americana

An array of aquamarine-colored covers that capture the essence of American culture.
Explore Aquamarine Americana

Bijou Bordeaux

A beautiful batch of wine-colored wicks.
Explore Bijou Bordeaux

Black Silver Foils

A selection of shadowy strikers with an embossed silver finish.
Explore Black Silver Foils

Blue Silver Foils

A selection of blue strikers with an embossed silver finish.
Explore Blue Silver Foils

Bold Blackletter

A batch of matchbook covers featuring bold, ornate blackletter typography.
Explore Bold Blackletter

Chinese Charms

A collection of bright, glowing matchbooks from a variety of Chinese-American restaurants.
Explore Chinese Charms

Chrome Classics

A lineup of lustrous and luminous chrome covers.
Explore Chrome Classics

Cobalt Collectibles

A range of regal, cobalt blue covers from establishments across the country.
Explore Cobalt Collectibles

Crabby Keepsakes

A collection of crustacean-clad covers.
Explore Crabby Keepsakes

Custard Corners

A cache of custard-colored collectibles.
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