Named "Player's Navy Cut," the brand gained popularity in Britain, Germany, and British Ceylon (present-day Sri Lanka) during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, later expanding to the United States.

[1] The brand's packaging featured a distinctive logo of a sailor in a 'Navy Cut' cap.

[2] The term "Navy Cut" reportedly originated from sailors' practice of binding tobacco leaves with string or twine, allowing the tobacco to mature under pressure, and then slicing off a "cut" for use.

[4] The brand's imagery, featuring a sailor known as "Hero," evolved over time but retained its appeal to consumers.

Player's Medium Navy Cut became the most popular variant, especially in the South of England and among the middle class.