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A Brief History of Business Cards: Key Milestones and Evolution

History of business cards

Despite the world shifting towards digital communication tools like LinkedIn profiles, business apps, and virtual networking platforms, traditional business cards remain highly relevant. 

 

With 27 million business cards printed daily in the USA alone, amounting to an impressive 10 billion annually, these physical cards continue to play a crucial role in professional networking and brand identity.

 

Business cards symbolize professionalism and branding, offering a physical connection that reflects your brand’s personality and builds credibility in ways digital tools can’t.

 

To understand why business cards are still important, it’s helpful to explore their history. From their beginnings as visiting cards in 15th-century China to their evolution into modern forms like NFC-enabled and digital visiting cards, these cards have changed considerably. 

 

In this blog, we will explore the history of business cards, and explain why they remain vital for professional networking and brand identity.

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The origins of business cards

The evolution of business cards is a fascinating story. From their early forms as visiting cards and calling cards to their modern uses, these cards have adapted to reflect changing cultural and historical contexts.

 

We will explore their origins in China, their development in Britain, the role of calling cards, and how the printing press transformed their production.

The evolution of business cards

15th century China: where the visiting card was first introduced

The origins of business cards can be traced back to 15th-century China, where the first business cards, known as “Meishi,” were used. These early visiting cards played a crucial role in the aristocratic society, serving as tools for both self-promotion and establishing social and business relationships. 

When an aristocrat intended to visit someone, they would send a Meishi in advance, allowing the recipient to decide whether to accept the meeting. 

 

This practice not only facilitated formal introductions but also verified credentials for entry into elite circles, setting a precedent for the strategic use of visiting cards in networking and relationship-building.

The evolution of visiting cards

In the year 1400, Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press in Germany laid the foundation for a major shift in European communication. By 1500, the press had produced over 20 million volumes, which facilitated the rapid spread of visiting cards across the continent. 

 

These cards, similar to the Chinese Meishi, quickly became popular across Europe as a means of formal introduction and social interaction. In France, they evolved into the “Visite Billet,” serving similar functions as their Chinese counterparts. 

 

This tradition further developed into the Carte de Visite, patented in 1854 by Andrew Adolphe Eugene Disderi. This new version introduced photographs, marking a significant evolution in personal and professional networking tools.

16th century: Trade cards era

In the 1600s, King Louis XIV’s introduction of the “trade card” marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of business communication in Europe. This innovation was more than just a means of exchanging contact details, it was a multifunctional tool designed to bridge the gap between businesses and their customers.

At a time when standard addresses were rare and city navigation was challenging, trade cards provided a practical solution. These early business cards were designed with dual purposes: one side featured promotional content about the business, while the other side included a map or description to help customers locate the business premises.

 

Businesses would distribute trade cards in busy town squares and marketplaces, helping them to stand out and attract potential customers by providing essential location information alongside their promotional message. 

17th century: The evolution of calling cards

During the Victorian era, calling cards evolved into tools of romance and social interaction. Suitors would leave their cards on a silver tray when visiting a lady and wait in the hall while the card was presented to her. 

 

The card’s design was crucial as it represented the suitor’s first impression; if the lady approved, it would lead to a face-to-face meeting.

Before this, calling cards followed intricate etiquette rules in Europe, with specific designs and folds used to convey messages like congratulations or condolences. The presentation of these cards adhered to strict social norms, and their quality could significantly impact one’s social standing. 

 

A well-designed card could enhance one’s reputation, while a poorly made card could be detrimental to social status and influence. This period marked the calling card as a crucial element in maintaining and elevating one’s position within societal and professional circles.

18th - 19th century: The rise of color and design

The 18th century saw significant advancements in business card printing, transitioning from traditional woodcut and letterpress methods to more sophisticated copperplate engraving. As the 19th century began, lithographic printing revolutionized the process, allowing for the use of up to 15 colored stones on a single card to produce rich, detailed designs.

 

By the 1890s, die-cut cards became popular, and businesses with more resources started using uniquely shaped cards to make a memorable impression. 

Creative innovations like folding cards, those with moving elements, and cards that revealed hidden messages when held up to the light also emerged to capture attention.

 

During the late 18th and 19th centuries, business cards began to transform into essential tools for personal branding and self-promotion. The introduction of new printing technologies and materials allowed for more elaborate and eye-catching designs, making business cards a key element in professional identity and marketing.

20th century - Modern day business cards

Business cards have come a long way from their origins as simple paper cards. What started as a basic tool for sharing contact information has evolved into a versatile marketing asset. Today’s business cards can be made from materials like plastic, metal, and even wood, each offering unique benefits in durability and appearance.

modern day business cards

Modern business cards feature advancements that go beyond traditional paper formats. Some of these modern options include:

 

  • NFC technology: Allows easy sharing of contact information and digital profiles with a simple tap on a smartphone.
  • Digital cards: Shareable and editable electronic versions like digital business cards that integrate with your online presence.
  • Eco-friendly materials: Options such as recycled paper and biodegradable materials that support sustainability.
  • Customizable designs: Unique shapes, transparent elements, and foil accents that make a memorable impression and reflect your personal or brand identity.

Thoughtfully designed modern business cards can make a significant impact, standing out with personalized touches and unique features. With a wealth of resources available for designing business cards, they are more than just contact details  and become a vital element of your branding strategy.

The future of business cards

Business cards have come a long way, but their evolution is far from over. The future holds exciting possibilities, with innovations like contactless technology on the horizon.

 

Imagine business cards equipped with tiny NFC chips that can transfer contact details, links, and even multimedia content directly to a smartphone with a simple tap. This adds a modern twist while keeping a tangible card as a memorable keepsake.

Digital business cards

Looking further ahead, future business cards could include:

 

  • Augmented reality (AR): Cards that use AR to display interactive content such as videos or 3D models when viewed through a smartphone.
  • Smart technology: Integration of biometric sensors or advanced chips for enhanced security and functionality.
  • Eco-Friendly designs: Use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly printing practices to reduce environmental impact.
  • Real-Time updates: Digital cards that offer live updates and seamless integration with online platforms.

Although the exact future is uncertain, it’s clear that business cards will continue to evolve, offering new and innovative ways to connect and make a lasting impression.

Conclusion

The journey of business cards shows how innovation builds on tradition. As time passes, we keep finding new ways to make a lasting impression. If this history has sparked your creativity, Print to Brand is here to help. 

 

We offer custom business cards that are as distinctive as your brand. Let us help you stand out and make a memorable impact!

Answering your questions

The world's first business cards were Meishi, originating in 15th century China as formal announcements for royal visits.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, business cards evolved to include intricate designs and color printing, used for personal branding and social networking.

Old business cards can be repurposed as historical keepsakes, incorporated into art projects, or used as unique reference material. 

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