They capitalized on this award and produced many decks that would promote the win such as their famous Gold Medal Squeezers. attended the Paris Exposition and took home the gold medal for their popular Squeezers playing cards. In 1878 the New York Consolidated Card Co. Cohen’s descendants produced some of the most beautiful and historically important playing cards ever seen, and most are highly sought after by collectors today. During the golden years of the business (1871-1894), L.I. This was a move made to combat the rising pressure of competitors. Levy, partnered together to form the New York Consolidated Card Company. In 1871, the three firms of Samuel Hart & Co, Lawrence & Cohen and John J.