What is it about tattoos of poker cards that makes people so drawn to them that they mark their bodies with them forever? When it comes to gambling, it’s clear why everyone is eager to display their lucky charms for everyone to see. Read our article to find out the meaning of one of the most popular tattoo symbols today!
The Meaning of Poker Cards Tattoos
Nowadays, the poker cards tattoo is one of the most popular symbols among body ink lovers. Do not be fooled because many people choose to grace their bodies with this image, not just poker lovers and gambling enthusiasts.
The first and the most common meaning of this tattoo is good fortune and good luck. Poker cards were considered almost like a “lucky star” all the way back in the 17th century. People often choose the ace of spades tattoo in the form of playing cards that create a royal flush together. As you know, the ace of spades is the highest playing card in value, so it is no surprise that it is the most beloved symbol.
Poker cards tattoos have many other meanings as well. Throughout history, this tattoo was associated with bikers and the underground. In this depiction, poker cards had the meaning of bravery, having no fear, living on the edge, and wearing your luck on your sleeve (literally).
No Fear
Among the many meanings of poker cards, they were mostly referred to as a symbol of toughness, the ability to take risks, and being fearless. Not only in gambling, but in other parts of people’s lives, this tattoo means the courage to take chances when you love someone and to live your life to the fullest. Living your life on the edge does not always have to be a bad thing, so this meaning can be interpreted as both good and bad.
For some, having no fear is a new thing that they need more of in their lives, so they choose this tattoo as a reminder not to take life so seriously all the time or to stop planning everything and start trusting more. For others, however, this could mean being able to stand on your own two feet, when life leaves you stranded and alone.
Being free of fear was the meaning most beloved among many soldiers, especially during
the Vietnam War. Namely, it was common for them to wear helmets that depicted aces of spades as a way of procuring fear into their enemies. Even more often, many fallen soldiers were buried with the ace of spades card on their chest, so as time passed, this tradition got a whole new meaning — a well-deserved peace in the afterlife.
Two Sides of the Same Coin
When you think of poker cards, you think of luck and prosperity, taking chances, and having that risk pay off. And since a deck contains 54 cards and 2 jokers, there is practically an infinite number of possibilities for your tattoo. You can choose a single card with a certain number on it that holds a special meaning or a certain poker hand (royal flush, straight flush, full house, etc).
Aside from the Ace being the most common symbol, body ink lovers often choose the King, Queen, or the Jack. These cards represent power, success, and strong will. Also, there is a combination of four Aces, which symbolize victory.
While the King card means power and trustworthiness, depicting the head of the family and a fearless leader, the Queen often represents a woman in love or in reverse, sadness for the one that got away. Additionally, it can also be a symbol of determination and persistence.
Of course, let’s not forget the Joker card. Both in life and in gambling, nothing is certain, so this card can have either good or bad meaning. The Joker is a symbol of mystery, which isn’t always a bad thing. Moreover, the Joker is used as a wild card in many card games, so that meaning transcends to a person’s life — it can depict a free spirit, or the willingness to always grab the life by its horns and make the best out of bad situations.
On the other hand, poker cards tattoos could have a dark allure to them. They can often symbolize a person’s thrive for power, which can lead to a dark path. Moreover, they can also represent putting your life at risk or dealing with a tragedy. Aside from being a symbol of a group (gangs) and showing that you are not alone in the crowd, these tattoos can also symbolize a strong individual that is bravely taking on the many life’s difficulties.
Queen of Spades
Queen of Spades is the most popular symbol, for both men and women. Not only can it often be found in the form of a tattoo, but also as a part of clothing, jewelry, or as an accessory. Queen represents a strong mind, willfulness, and the ability to always push forward towards the goal.
In the most simple meaning, the Queen is a woman in love. She is strong, brave, and she fights for what she loves. She can, of course, stray towards gloomy roads and let her desires and cravings get the best of her.
Summary
Poker playing cards tattoos are not just for passionate gamblers. They are equally popular among women and men, meaning that this symbolism is able to express various feelings, wishes, and goals of many people. With many different card combinations, this type of tattoo will surely have you thinking twice about gracing your shoulder, arm, or chest with this appealing image.
