In 1908, two notable trade card sets featuring automobiles and auto racing were issued, marking some of the earliest dedicated automotive racing collectibles in the world.
The most famous is the Garfield Tea Syrup New York to Paris Trade Card Set. This scarce promotional set of six cards commemorates the legendary 1908 New York to Paris Automobile Race. The cards illustrate the competing cars and scenes from the starting line in Times Square.
The other significant 1908 release is part of the massive Felix Potin Chocolates series (Series 2). This French set includes a small selection of cards featuring early auto racing drivers and personalities, such as Henri Fournier and other pioneers of the sport.
These 1908 issues represent the very beginning of auto racing on trading cards — appearing just as long-distance automobile racing was capturing worldwide attention. The Garfield Tea set, in particular, is highly prized by early automotive collectors for its direct connection to one of the greatest endurance races in history.
1908 Garfield Tea Syrup New York to Paris Trade Cards
The 1908 Garfield Tea Syrup New York to Paris set is a promotional trade card issue consisting of six cards that commemorate the legendary 22,000-mile New York to Paris Automobile Race.
1908 Garfield Tea Syrup New York to Paris Trade Cards