It's not my imagination: matches are far less ubiquitous these days. When more people smoked, more shops and restaurants had a box of matchbooks by the counter, often under a small sign that read “For Our ‘Matchless’ Friends.” As a small child I knew there was a double meaning there, but I couldn’t quite grasp what it was.

These come from many sources – estate sales, eBay, antique stores, my own childhood collection. (Yes, they let me play with matches.) I’ve selected the best for their graphic design, historical value, or the sad tale you can infer by holding them between thumb and finger and listening closely.

New matchbook every Monday. Enjoy!

-- Lileks

NOTE: this site is undergoing a total overhaul, with categories posted Monday, starting on 9/12, through 2012.

ADDED 02.11.13: Finance.

LATEST: HERE.