The American Matchcover Archive


A digital repository dedicated to the conservation and celebration of the American matchbook cover — a pocket-sized canvas that once served as the primary advertising medium for 20th century commerce. 

We hope to honor this everyday, utilitarian item not merely as ephemera, but as a significant artifact of graphic design history. 

Explore the Archive






Playful Patterns


A captivating collection of covers decorated with various colors and geometric patterns.
George Abdella Fine Cars
Worcester, Massachusetts
George Edge Motor Co.
Gadsden. Alabama
Ding Ho
Atlanta, Georgia
Sebe Shields
Detroit, Michigan
Paradise Restaurant
Asheville, North Carolina