>From the CR archives:
1949 and Bianchi?
Maybe the playing card motif has its origins with Fausto Coppi's 1949 Bianchi Pista.
Bianchi ad campaign copy: "Pokerissmo: no matter how you deal the cards, Bianchi and Coppi are victorious."
http://www.vintagevelos.com/
This is the earliest use of the card suits on a frame that I have seen.
Chuck Schmidt South Pasadena, CA http://www.velo-retro.com (reprints, T-shirts and Campagnolo & Mavic Timelines)
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