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





Cobalt Collectibles

A range of regal, cobalt blue covers from establishments across the country.
Gus’s Crossroads Inn
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 
Crepes Suzette
New York, New York
Kirin Japanese Steakhouse
Modesto, California
Midland Hotel
Chicago, Illinois
The Roosevelt
New York, New York
Hotel Windsor
Detroit, Michigan
Catch 22
Stamford, Connecticut
Maine Diner
Wells, Maine
Cape Cod Cafe
Brockton, Massachusetts
Nick’s Bar-B-Q
Dallas, Texas
Riverside Hotel & Casino
Reno, Nevada
Bluko Professional Car Wash
Indianapolis, Indiana

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