Well, it is pretty obvious at this time that the one way art design is preferred, since it is by a definite majority (75% of those polled). Looks like I got it right from the outset. Preferences are pretty evenly divided between #7 and #8. If #8 is chosen, many people suggest 2 quotes. I will probably end up with 2 paraphrased statements instead, but I honestly don't mind that. I think I am leaning in that direction.

Now that the design is decided, I still have some questions on the court cards and aces, and how to make them unique. For the aces I was thinking I could inscribe the art within the suits, in something like this:



I could of course make them slightly more ornate, but my cards might be complicated enough at this point.

As for the court cards, I think I could add a border, either just on the top and bottom, or all around. The border could try to contain classic card elements, such as having the Jacks border have spears/halberds, king having swords, and queens having flowers. The suit could also be in the border. Any other ideas come to your mind?

I like the top right design, would def be up for buying a couple decks.

That idea for Aces is brilliant.
The border idea does also seem to work, and I can't really think of any other way. Maybe check out other novelty decks and see what they do?

I like em. I'd buy em. You might consider volume/issue numbers or dating specific series for collectors. As for marketing, give'em away and build a website imo. Your market will look for these once they see them.

wow these are awesome and i will buy a pack. original design is the best

super cool, would buy these for sure