What tarot deck is closest to the original Rider-Waite?

OliviaBennett

Thinking about getting a second deck to use for readings I do for other people. I already use a Radiant Rider-Waite for myself and I’m pretty attached to it, so I’d rather keep that one personal.

I like the Radiant style, but some of the color choices on a few cards feel off compared to Pamela Colman Smith’s original art. It’s a small thing but it matters to me, so I’m looking for a deck that sticks closely to the original illustrations.

Right now I’m deciding between the Original Rider-Waite Tarot and the Centennial Rider-Waite Tarot. For anyone who’s used both, which one feels truer to PC Smith’s artwork? Also, does anyone know a good online archive where I can view full images of the original cards?

Thanks!

AponiEagle

If you want the absolute closest match to the original 1909 Rider-Waite-Smith, the 1909 Art Restoration Deck is the one. It’s basically a replica of the first edition, made from scans of an original deck and digitally cleaned up to remove the dirt and wear from 100+ years of use.

You can get it through DriveThruCards - a quick Google search will bring it up.

If you want something still very close but a lot easier to find, the RWS Centennial Edition from US Games is a solid, accessible choice.

Grace

I actually own both decks. The 1909 Art Restoration is probably the closest you’ll get to a true replica of the original "roses and lilies" deck, but it has drawbacks. The cardstock is pretty thin, and any quirks from the original printing - misaligned plates, ink spots - are reproduced. The borders look a little off too, which makes sense since those were corrected in later printings.

The Centennial is almost as good for color and clarity. It feels like they used scans of a naturally aged "roses and lilies" deck. The borders were cleaned up nicely and the cardstock is excellent. There are lots of versions: the standard Centennial, the full Commemorative Edition, and even a mini in a tin. The only real downside is the copyright text printed on the cards.

Personally I lean toward the Centennial. The cardstock makes it a pleasure to shuffle and handle, and that matters to me.