The 1968 Bassett Motor Cars Vintage & Modern set, issued by Geo. Bassett & Co. (a British confectionery company known for collectible cards often included with sweets), is a series of 25 small non-sport trading cards (approximately 68 x 36 mm) that chronologically traces the evolution of automobiles. It spans from early 20th-century pioneering vehicles to more contemporary models of the era, blending “vintage” historical cars with “modern” designs up to the late 1960s.
The set begins with the 1903 Renault, famously associated with tragedy when Marcel Renault was killed while competing in the Paris-Madrid race of 1903, highlighting the dangerous early days of motorsport. It continues through various iconic models, showcasing technological advancements in design, engineering, and performance over more than six decades. Cards typically feature colorful illustrations of the cars on the front, with descriptive text on the reverse providing historical context, specifications, and notable facts.
At least three cards in the set relate directly to auto racing, tying into the competitive spirit that drove much of automotive innovation. This Bassett issue remains a popular collectible among vintage non-sport card enthusiasts and automotive historians for its educational timeline format and charming artwork, with complete sets occasionally appearing in auctions or online marketplaces. It captures not just the aesthetics of classic and mid-20th-century cars but also the thrill and risks of auto racing that shaped the industry’s progress.
“Motor Cars Vintage & Modern”
Card #1 1903 Renault
“Motor Cars Vintage & Modern”
Card #8 1921-28 Bentley 3-litre
“Motor Cars Vintage & Modern”
Card #14 1922 British Talbot
