Posted By:
Jon CanfieldLeon and Ted - well it's a guess but there is method to my madness.
First, other than Coupon that did not offer a slide and shell configuration, all cards associated with cigarettes since 1886 have been packaged with slide and shell packs and not soft packs. Specifically, all other T206 cigarette brands used slide and shell boxes. I can't see AB not using the slide and shell box when it was available.
Second, while I don't have a scan handy, the ATC ledger pages listed cards as coming from 10-count boxes.
Third, I believe all of the soft packs are not 10 count configurations (but please correct me if I'm wrong). While I do understand Hindu did not use a 10-count configuration, all other brands did.
Fourth, I find it difficult that so many AB cards could survive in nice condition if soft packs were used. Soft packs offer little to no protection for cards. Corners would all be horrible bent, etc. Inner slides protect cards perfectly.
Now, am I 100% sure that AB did not use soft packs - no. But I would think the chances that they used the boxes are more likely than not. It is a good question and unless we ever find a card and box intact, I don't think we will know with certainty. It's just an educated guess.