Playing-cards were used in Persia and India as far back as the 12th century.

At that time, a pack of cards consisted of 48 cards (12 ranks, 4 suits) instead of 52 cards.  An earlier, similar version of playing cards existed in China in the 9th century – they were referred to as “leafs”.

Playing-cards were used in Persia and India as far back as the 12th century.