Derived directly from the original Arabic system, suits are coins and cups (short), and swords and clubs (long). Here, clubs are always stylised objects resembling sceptres, ceremonial batons, or staffs — distinctive features ensuring definitive identification. Cups vary in shape, while coins often differ in color. Although swords are often described as curved, they are essentially straight (see courts) — except in "Trap­pola" decks, where they are curved like scimitars. Court cards are King, Knight, and Knave. Long suits on numeral cards are always depicted full-length: straight (clubs crossed at centre, as well as swords in certain tarot decks) or curved (swords crossed at ends). Decks, full-length or double-headed, usually consist of 40 [A234567JCK] or 52 cards; Trap­pola, 36 [A2789XJCK].
A=Ace | X=10 | J=Jack | C=Cavalier/Knight | K=King