vintage travel postcards uk

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Retro/Vintage Travel Postcards - Set of 20 Different Designs

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20 Different old fashioned / vintage / retro travel postcards

• A6 size (Normal postcard size) Thick 350g card.
• Good to send to friends or create small little displays in your house.

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Customers like the quality and appearance of the greeting cards. For example, they mention the paper is very high quality, the designs are antique and the cards are perfect for room decoration.

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Customers are satisfied with the quality of the greeting cards. They mention that the antique design and the paper is very high quality. Some customers also frame the cards as pictures and use them for an art project. Overall, most are happy with the reasonable quality and reasonable price of the cards.

"... Good collection ." Read more

"Arrived a little late however well packaged and reasonable quality very reasonably priced and a good selection of cards" Read more

"These cards were beautiful but unfortunately they were impossible to write in because they had a sorry of shiner waxy surface." Read more

" Really good quality and aesthetic postcards. Theres only 1 that dosent match the rest and is a bit of an eyesore but the rest are really good." Read more

Customers like the appearance of the greeting cards. They mention that it looks nice, has retro postcards, and is perfect for room decoration. Some customers also say that the images are nostalgic and give a vintage feel.

"They look lovely and vintage themed.Couple of pics stand out from others...." Read more

"Love these, they look great and the colour is not too pale or glaring.I have them displayed on one wall in the down stairs toilet...." Read more

" Nostalgic images : very evocative of travel in a by-gone era." Read more

"Really good quality and aesthetic postcards . Theres only 1 that dosent match the rest and is a bit of an eyesore but the rest are really good." Read more

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Postcard grading guide

How to value old postcards

The value of old postcards is affected by many variable factors, but demand, condition and rarity often have the greatest influence on how much a postcard's worth.

As experienced valuers of collectables, our experts are often asked: How do I value my vintage and old postcards?

Unless you have years of experience, the short answer is with difficulty. Even then, assessing the value of a postcard collection can be a timely process.

There is, of course, no reason why you cannot gain an impression of a collection's value - and this article aims to guide you through the steps you must take to do so. Hopefully, it will help you to assess postcards in a more detailed manner.

If you are planning to insure a collection, this postcard grading guide could help you gain a better understanding of the value that needs to be placed on it. It should also allow you to gauge whether or not it is worthwhile taking your collection to be assessed by an independent expert or auction house, such as the services offered here at Warwick and Warwick.

If you do need assistance after reading this guide, please do not hesitate to contact our postcard valuation experts, who'll be happy to provide their assistance free of charge.

Childhood Memories: A beautiful postcard by Scottish artist Jessie King (1875 - 1949) from a set of 6 depicting nursery rhymes in an art nouveau style.

Assessing an old postcard's value

How to establish a card's age

The first thing to do is to determine the approximate age of the cards, as the vast majority of cards issued after the 1960s have very little value. The postmarks on the reverse of the postally used cards are a reliable guide. Size also helps as cards larger than 5" x 3" were only popular in this country from the 1960s onwards.

You now need to look at the 5" x 3" cards produced in the 1960s or earlier. However, it is important to realise that the value of these cards is not determined by their age and that 90 per cent or so of the average collection will have very little value. So, which cards do have value?

What type of card is it?

Postcard collectors are roughly divided into 2 camps;

• Those collecting topographical cards and social history
• Those collecting subject cards (Often called 'topicals' in the US)

Topographical cards

Topographical postcards and those depicting social history are by far the most important collecting area in the UK.

Collectors like to assemble a record of a geographical area, whether it be where they live or where they were born. They enjoy viewing street scenes showing how the street appeared decades earlier. They enjoy seeing cards of steam trains at the local station, trams on the streets, the local dairyman, the village inn, the postman delivering letters on his round and other such images of social history.

The more detailed or 'animated' a card is, the more a collector will want it for their collection and the more valuable it will be.

Topographical cards fall into two broad categories:

Real photographic postcards: Printed direct from the negative and, in the 'Golden Age' of postcard production from 1902 to 1918, these cards were often produced in very limited numbers by local photographers. Such cards are scarce. Well-animated types, with children playing in a village centre or an early motorcar close-up, can sell for £15 to £30 each. A close-up of a steam lorry or an early omnibus in a town can be worth £40 to £70. A Suffragette procession or gypsy encampment can sell for over £100.

Printed and coloured topographical cards: These were produced on a printing press and lack the definition of the real photographic card. When viewed under magnification, the printing screen can be seen as a system of dots. Such cards are more common than real photographic ones and command substantially reduced values.

French Classic: This 'October' postcard is one of 12 from the 'Months of the Year' series by the well-known Alphonse Mucha (1860-1939).

Subject cards or 'topicals'

Subject postcards: Collectors display an interest in a wide range of subjects - including animals, children, comics, shipping, novelty, railways and glamour. But the majority of subject cards do not achieve the intense interest attached to top of the range topographicals.

With subjects such as children and glamour, the postcard artist is an important factor in assessing a card's value. Louis Wain produced a large number of cat designs and his work is widely collected. Art nouveau and art deco glamour cards by artists such as Alphonse Mucha (pictured in the image above) and Raphael Kirchner (pictured in the image below) can sell for three-figure sums, as long as the condition is good.

Postcard grading is far more important with subject cards than with topographical cards, as the market is smaller and the collectors tend to be more sensitive to the condition of the card.

Foreign cards: The average British collection contains very few foreign cards. At the present moment, there is a lot of interest in Chinese cards, as these constitute a rapidly expanding market. If the card is postally used, there is a chance that the value of the postal markings can outstrip the value of the image on the front of the card. The same is true for cards emanating from areas where native usage was small, such as some of the Pacific Ocean islands. Many British collections contain cards sent home from British troops serving in France and Belgium during the First World War, but these cards are common and rarely have much value.

Superb Detail: An art nouveau style postcard from the 'Roma' set by prolific postcard artist Raphael Kirchner (1876-1917).

How much are the stamps worth on an old postcard?

"Are the stamps on these postcards of any value?" This is another question we are often asked. Generally, the answer is 'no' because postcard mailing from most countries was prolific. The stamps needed to cover the postage rate were also produced in vast quantities and are still very common.

However, occasionally we encounter a card with a desirable postmark, such as those mailed in advance for delivery on Christmas day, in Edwardian times.

Knowing this takes expert knowledge, which is why it is essential to have your postcards professionally assessed by a valuer who has a detailed understanding of both postcards and philately.

At Warwick & Warwick, we have a free postcard valuation service. Please email us  or call 01926 499031 to book an appointment.

Or see our How to sell postcards guide for advice about how to achieve a quick and efficient disposal at current market levels.

How to Grade the Condition of Postcards

As you would expect, the condition of an old or antique postcard is an extremely important factor in relation to its worth - just as it is with old coins and stamps.

Whilst postcard grading is a subjective area, cards which are worn, damaged or dirty tend to be less desirable. If you acquire a damaged card, it may have little commercial value and is best thought of as a space-filler.

When buying cards, be wary of descriptions which include terms such as 'average' or 'good for its age' because this usually indicates the card is in a 'fair' or worse condition.

The following are commonly used postcard grading terms, accepted by dealers and collectors alike, that are used to described the condition of old, antique and vintage items:

Mint: A perfect card which is just as it was when it was issued. As new, unposted and in a pristine state, without bends, creases, writing or postmarks. A clean and fresh card with sharp corners, seldom seen and a description which is not normally applicable to vintage cards.

Near Mint: Like Mint, but showing some very slight aging or discolouration - probably from being in an album or other unprotected storage format. Otherwise, still a clean and perfect card.

Excellent (Ex): A postcard without obvious flaws and similar to Mint in appearance, without bends, creases or pinholes. It may be postally used or unused, but the corners of the card are square, not rounded or blunt. A clean, fresh card on the picture side, it may have writing and/or a postmark on the address side only, which does not detract from its appearance. When viewed at an angle or under strong light, it may show some signs of aging, a lightening of colour or the hint of album marks. In terms of pricing, this is usually considered as the baseline condition.

Very Good: Like an Excellent postcard but the corners may be slightly rounded and a few almost undetectable creases may be present. A very collectable postcard with a fine appearance, which may have writing and/or a postmark on the address side. If it is an early undivided back postcard, writing may appear on the front. The card may also have minor defects (such as album marks, signs of age and handling) but should show little or no discolouration. Most collectible cards are in this Very Good condition and should be worth about 20-25% less than an Excellent postcard.

Good: A postcard which has corners that are noticeably blunt or rounded with slight bends or creases, still collectable even if the condition is less than Very Good. Used or unused and showing noticeable defects (like handling or wear), it may have slight creasing and minor postal damage but this will not be detrimental to the overall appearance. The card may have writing and/or postmarks on the front or back (address) side or other noticeable album marks or discolouration. A postcard in this condition may be worth 40-50% less than one which is classed as being in Excellent condition.

Fair: A postcard which is intact but with writing or a heavy postmark cancellation which affects the picture and spoils its appearance. It may have noticeably rounded corners and some creasing or edge damage, but it is still in a collectable state. The value would depend on rarity, but cards in this condition would not appeal to all collectors.

Poor (P): An incomplete postcard which shows an image that has been seriously affected. Classed as a space-filler and worth very little.

Get your postcard collection valued free

If you own a postcard or collection and you think it might be valuable, it's always a good idea to have it professionally appraised by experts with years of experience. If you intend to sell it at auction or via a Private Treaty Sale ), this will help you obtain a fair price. If you plan to keep it, your insurers will know exactly how much to list it for.

We currently provide a postcard valuation service free of charge. To find out more, please  email  us - we'll be happy to offer any assistance you may need.

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The Artful History of Vintage Travel Postcards

by Zoë Peate

Who doesn’t love to find a postcard from somewhere far away, waiting for them inside their mailbox? It’s such a rare occasion in this digital era, which only makes it an even more delightful surprise. While the Golden Age of postcards is long past, like the travel posters of yesteryear, vintage postcards are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. They’ve long been collectors’ items, but now a new generation is discovering the beauty of vintage travel postcard design.

Early History

Postcards began as a cheap way for people to keep in touch during the early 19th century. The first picture postcard was sent by English writer Theodore Hook, who playfully sent it to himself in 1840. Though cards remained absent of pictures, apart from decorative borders, for some time after.

The first known postcard to be printed as a souvenir item was posted in Vienna, May 1871. This was followed by cards featuring the newly built Eiffel Tower in 1889 and 1890. In the U.S. the first souvenir cards were sold at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago.

In 1894, the Royal Mail gave permission for British publishers to manufacture and distribute picture postcards. At the time, steam locomotives were providing fast and affordable travel within the UK. The seaside was a popular destination and became the subject of many souvenir postcard designs.

Golden Age 1901-1907

The Golden Age of postcards was ushered in at the turn of the 20th century when the U.S. government allowed the words “Post Card” to be printed on privately printed cards. In 1902 the UK postal service permitted the “divided back” design of modern postcards so that the message and address could be put on one side, allowing for a picture on the other. France followed suit in 1904, Germany in 1905, and the U.S. in 1907.

Divided Back Era 1907-1915

The divided back (or “split back”) design took off in most countries between 1907-1915. Up to this point Germany produced most of the postcards for the U.S. market because of their superior printing technology. As import tariffs soared and World War I began in 1914, the availability and use of cards in the U.S. began to decline.

The White Border Era 1916-1930

So named for the white border around the picture area, postcards of this era saw American printing technology try to catch up with German counterparts. Cards printed with borders were more forgiving in the cutting process and required less-skilled workers to produce.

During the 1920s, the Model T Ford and an improved road network in the US saw growth in domestic tourism. American travelers sent postcards of national landmarks, landscapes, tourist and roadside attractions. 1920s postcards were usually based on black and white photographs that had been hand-colored.

Linen Card Era 1930-1945

“Linen postcards” were popular, though they weren’t really made of linen. A new printing process made use of less costly card stock with a higher fabric to wood pulp content ratio, to which a linen texture was applied.

Cheap production and brighter colors made linen cards popular. Most designs were photograph-based images that were often so retouched, they appeared to be drawn. The linen card printing technique was developed by Chicago-based postcard manufacturers Curt Teich and Co. Company founder, Curt Teich, was a German native who brought cutting-edge printing techniques from his homeland to America, though was highly secretive about his process.

Curt Teich and Co. was the same company that introduced the much loved “large letter” postcard design in color, during the Linen Card Era. Also known as “big letter postcards”, the designs featured a place name in bold type with small photos appearing within the letters.

This design had failed to gain popularity earlier in the century due to postal restrictions combined with black and white imagery. However, with the vibrance of color printing and the introduction of divided back cards for messaging and addressing cards, the design exploded.

Modern Chrome Era 1939 Onwards

The development of Photochromes or Modern Chromes brought about the current age of travel postcards. As you would be familiar, these mailers have smooth, glossy surfaces with sharp edges and vibrant, accurate colors. Vintage travel postcards are not only a snapshot of a destination in time—a nostalgic reminder of how a place has changed. They reveal stories about the development of photographic and printing technology, as well as the evolution of the postal service domestically and abroad. These seemingly simple pieces of card have traversed land and ocean, bringing some of the world’s most beautiful and wondrous places right to our doorsteps.

Postcards (any postcards, not just travel) are one of the most collected items in the world, right up there with coins and stamps – so aspiring deltiologists, you are in good company. Keep an eye out for unused postcards as they tend to be more valuable. You may also wish to take any postcards from older relatives and they can document the journeys they have taken. There are plenty of online resources to get you started collecting and collectors’ communities are always ready to adopt you into their ranks.

This article originally appeared on Duende by Madam ZoZo – an inspirational lifestyle blog for cultured, curious, and creative travelers, seeking unique and inspiring experiences.

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The Artful History of Vintage Travel Postcards

Who doesn’t love to find a postcard from somewhere far away, waiting for them inside their letterbox? It’s such a rare occasion in this digital era, which only makes it an even more delightful surprise. While the Golden Age of postcards is long past, like the travel posters of yesteryear, vintage travel postcards are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. They’ve long been collectors’ items, but now a new generation is discovering the beauty and sometimes novelty of vintage travel postcard design.

Disclosure: I may earn compensation from the purchase of any product or service linked on this website, at no extra cost to you. I only link to products I use and love, therefore feel comfortable recommending.

Early history

Postcards began as a cheap way for people to keep in touch during the early 19 th century. The first picture postcard was sent by English writer Theodore Hook, who cheekily sent it to himself in 1840. Though cards remained absent of pictures, apart from decorative borders, for some time after. The first known postcard to be printed as a souvenir item was posted in Vienna, May 1871. This was followed by cards featuring the newly built Eiffel Tower in 1889 and 1890. In the U.S. the first souvenir cards were sold at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Then in 1894, Royal Mail gave permission for British publishers to manufacture and distribute picture postcards. At the time steam locomotives were providing fast and affordable travel within the UK. The seaside was a popular destination that became the subject of many souvenir postcard designs.

Golden Age 1901 -1907

The Golden Age of postcards was ushered in at the turn of the twentieth century, when the U.S. government allowed the words “Post Card” to be printed on privately printed cards. In 1902 the UK postal service permitted the “divided back” design of modern postcards so that the message and address could be put one side, allowing for a picture on the other. France followed suit in 1904, Germany in 1905 and the U.S. in 1907.

Divided back Era 1907-1915

The divided back (or “split back”) design took off in most countries during this time. Up to this point Germany produced most of the postcards for the U.S. market because of their superior printing technology. As import tariffs soared and World War I began in 1914, the availability and use of cards in the U.S. began to decline.

The White Border Era 1916-1930

So named for the white border around the picture area, postcards of this era saw American printing technology try to catch up with German counterparts. Cards printed with borders were more forgiving in the cutting process and required less-skilled workers to produce.

During the 1920s the Model-T Ford and an improved road network in the US saw growth in domestic tourism. American travelers sent postcards of national landmarks, landscapes, tourist and roadside attractions. 1920s postcards were usually based on black and white photographs that had been hand-coloured.

Linen Card Era 1930 – 1945

“Linen postcards” were popular, though they weren’t really made of linen. A new printing process made use of less costly card stock with a higher fabric to wood pulp content ratio to which a linen-texture was applied. Cheap production and brighter colours made linen cards popular. Most designs were photograph-based images that were often so retouched, they appeared to be drawn. The linen card printing technique was developed by Chicago based postcard manufacturers Curt Teich and Co. Founder Curt Teich was a German native, who brought cutting-edge printing techniques from his homeland to America, though was highly secretive about his process.

Curt Teich and Co. was the same company that introduced the much loved “large letter” postcard design in colour. Also known as “big letter postcards”, the designs featured a place name in large bold type with small photos inside the letters. This design had failed to gain popularity earlier in the century due to postal restrictions combined with black and white imagery. However, with the vibrance of colour printing and the introduction of divided back cards for messaging and addressing cards, the design exploded.

Modern Chrome Era 1939 onwards

The development of Photochromes or Modern Chromes brought about the current age of travel postcards. As you would be familiar, these mailers have smooth, glossy surfaces with sharp edges and vibrant, accurate colours.

Inspired by vintage travel postcards

• Here are some vintage travel postcard inspired ideas to indulge your love of travel nostalgia: Wear postcard print apparel – In the 1950s novelty fabrics including those that incorporate postcard prints became popular. You can shop many vintage items like the adorable dress below on Etsy , or pick up more modern takes on the postcard print by designers such as Dolce & Gabbana all the way through to the more affordable Reformation and  J.Crew .
• Collect cards – Postcards (any postcards, not just travel) are one of the most collected items in the world right up there with coins and stamps, so you’ll be in good company if you choose to start collecting. There are plenty of online resources to get you started and collectors’ communities waiting to adopt you into their ranks.
• Join an online community – Share your love of vintage travel postcards virtually by joining a group such as this one on Flickr.
• Make your own – Got Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator skills? Turn your travel snaps into your own vintage postcard design with this tutorial.
• Big Letter Mural Hunt – If you are Stateside, you might go mural hunting. Since 2015, muralist Victor Ving and photographer Lisa Beggs have been travelling the country creating big letter postcard-inspired murals like this one I captured in Chicago. Collect them all!!

Vintage travel postcards are not only a snapshot of a destination in time—a nostalgic reminder of how a place has changed. They reveal stories about the development of photographic and printing technology, as well as the evolution of the postal service domestic and abroad. These seemingly simple pieces of card, have traversed land and ocean, bringing some of the world’s most beautiful and wondrous places right to our doorsteps.

Peace, love & inspiring travel,

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Vintage Postcards: Collecting a Window to the Past

✍🏻 Written by Dr. Laura Whitman from MemoryCherish

Starting a collection of vintage postcards can be a rewarding hobby that connects you with collectors and enthusiasts from around the world. With the surge of interest in collecting and trading vintage postcards, various platforms and resources have emerged to cater to this niche. Whether you’re interested in the diverse types of vintage postcards, their rich history, or the logistics of building and maintaining a collection, there’s a wealth of information and community support available.

Key Takeaways

• Vintage postcards act as historical artifacts reflecting art, culture, and communication.
• Building a collection can be a fulfilling hobby, offering personal and historical connections.
• Numerous resources and platforms are available to support and guide postcard collectors.

The Art of Vintage Postcards

When you grasp a vintage postcard, you’re not just holding a piece of sturdy paper with a picturesque scene. You are holding a tangible piece of history, an artifact that blends art , culture , and history into a single frame. Throughout the years, these postcards have served as more than just a means for correspondence; they have been miniature canvases for artists and a reflection of the cultural zeitgeist.

Styles and Themes

• Scenic Landmarks: Often, vintage postcards featured hand-painted or printed images of landmarks, allowing you to glimpse structures and places that might have since changed or vanished.
• Portraits: A glimpse into the fashion trends and societal norms of the era, these postcards bring historical figures and everyday people from the past to life.

Cultural Representation

Vintage postcards can also be an exploration of the past’s worldview, with images ranging from idyllic rural scenes to thriving urban vistas . By examining the art, messages, and imagery, you can decode the cultural attitudes and preferences of those times.

Historical Significance

Not only are vintage postcards a window to the past, but they also document advancements in printing technology and the evolution of postal services. The intricate designs, from the early undivided backs allowed only for an address, to the later divided backs with space for messages, reflect the progression of communication methods.

If you’re intrigued by the art of vintage postcards from Estate Sale Blog or wish to understand their value as highlighted by Jacquelinestallone.com , you’re not alone. Your interest ties you to the expansive world of deltiology, the study and collection of postcards, a hobby that numerous enthusiasts pursue with passion.

History of Postcards

In your exploration of memorabilia, you’ll find that postcards offer a rich tapestry of social history and artistic expression, charting their progression from simple greetings to sought-after collectibles.

Evolution From Greetings to Collectibles

Postcards began as a convenient method for brief correspondence. On February 27, 1861 , the US Congress enacted a law allowing privately printed cards to be sent through the mail. These early postcards quickly became a popular way for people to send greetings. By the Pioneer Period (1870-1898) , postcards were already being collected and traded. With advances in printing technology, vintage postcards became more ornate and pictorial, leading to the Golden Age of Postcards from 1898 to 1915.

• Pre-Postcard Era (1840-1870): Messages without an envelope, precursor to postcards
• Pioneer Postcard Era (1870-1898): Early forms of picture postcards
• Private Mailing Card Era (1898-1901): Postcards authorized by the US Congress

The transition into collectibles was further solidified as postcards began to showcase everything from exotic locations to artistic renditions, elevating them from mere communication tools to valuable pieces for collectors.

Impact on Culture and Communication

Postcards revolutionized the way people shared experiences and communicated over distances. They provided a glimpse into different cultures, landmarks, and historical events. During the early 20th century , the rise in postcard popularity also mirrored society’s growing mobility and curiosity about the world. As postcards became more diverse, they mirrored the broadening horizons of society at large and influenced cross-cultural exchanges. They served as a testament to the shifts in social customs, politics, and technology, capturing moments in history in a tangible form that you can still hold onto today.

• Divided Back Postcard Era (1907-1915): Space for messages on address side permitted
• White Border Era (1915-1930): Postcards with a distinctive white border around the image
• Linen Postcard Era (1930-1945): Postcards with a high rag content, giving a linen-like finish

As vintage postcards traversed global destinations, they became artifacts of an era, bridging your understanding of the past with the present.

Types of Vintage Postcards

Vintage postcards offer a window into the past, showcasing varied themes from geographical locations to festive celebrations. These collectible items not only reflect the art and communication of their time but also serve as historical records.

Travel and Transportation

Your journey through vintage postcards might start with Travel and Transportation cards, which depict various modes of travel and destinations. You can find scenic landscapes, city views, and landmarks, often featuring the means of travel of the era, from classic automobiles to steam trains. The Postcard Maven provides insights into these pictorial mementos that capture the essence of travel in times gone by.

Holidays and Special Occasions

When exploring Holidays and Special Occasions postcards, you will notice that these cards are particularly charming, with vibrant illustrations for events like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter. Halloween postcards, however, are among the most sought-after due to their rarity and unique artwork. According to The Spruce Crafts , the early 1900s to the 1920s was a golden age for holiday postcards.

Advertising and Promotional Cards

Finally, Advertising and Promotional Cards highlight the commercial aspect of postcards. Used as a marketing tool by businesses, these cards often feature bold graphics and slogans to promote products or services. They serve as a fascinating study of historical marketing practices and popular culture. Collectors might find this category particularly interesting due to the diverse range of artwork and typography that reveals much about the economic trends of the period.

Collecting Vintage Postcards

Collecting vintage postcards is both an enjoyable hobby and a way to preserve historical artifacts. This guide will walk you through the steps to start your own collection, help you to identify valuable postcards, and teach you how to care for and preserve these small pieces of history.

Starting a Collection

To begin collecting vintage postcards, start by defining your area of interest. Are you intrigued by historical landmarks, nostalgic holiday greetings, or exotic locations? Narrowing your focus can provide a clear direction for your collection. You may choose to start by visiting local antique shops , querying online marketplaces, or connecting with other collectors to acquire old postcards.

Identifying Valuable Postcards

When assessing the value of vintage postcards, look for a few key factors:

• Age : Postcards produced between 1907-1915, the Golden Age of postcards, may be more valuable.
• Condition : The better the condition, the higher the value. Look for crisp edges and minimal damage.
• Rarity : Limited edition postcards or those from a notable event are often more sought after.
• Subject Matter : Cards depicting historical events, famous places, or artwork by renowned illustrators can be more collectible.

To gauge the value of a postcard, conduct research through credible price guides and completed sales on auction sites.

Care and Preservation

Proper care and preservation are essential for maintaining the condition of your vintage postcards:

• Storage : Store your postcards in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and moisture damage.
• Protection : Use acid-free sleeves or albums to prevent discoloration and wear.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your postcard collection remains in the best possible condition, preserving its historical and financial value for years to come.

The Marketplace for Vintage Postcards

With a blend of history and art, vintage postcards offer a unique medium to collectors and enthusiasts alike. The marketplace for these collectibles is vibrant, with various avenues for you to buy and sell, and special events where aficionados gather. Delve into the specifics of navigating this niche market to make the most of your vintage postcard experience.

Buying Vintage Postcards

When you’re looking to expand your collection , identifying reputable sellers is crucial. Top-rated Plus sellers with the highest buyer ratings often ensure a transaction that is both reliable and satisfying. Look for listings that offer clear details on the card’s state, and whether there’s an option for returns or money-back guarantees . Additionally, some sellers may provide free shipping to incentivize your purchase.

• Websites : Platforms like CardCow Vintage Postcards and Mary L. Martin Ltd. Postcards specialize in a wide range of vintage postcards.
• Auctions : Online auction sites are often a treasure trove for buying collectibles. Engaging in the bidding process can sometimes allow you to acquire rarities at competitive prices.

Selling Vintage Postcards

If you’re on the opposite end of the transaction and wish to sell vintage postcards , the value of your offerings typically depends on their age, condition, and rarity. The process is relatively straightforward: contact buyers directly or list your items on a dedicated marketplace with a best offer feature to attract serious collectors.

• Direct Sales : Reach out to businesses like CardCow Vintage Postcards for a hassle-free selling experience.
• Online Listings : Utilize e-commerce platforms like The Magic Postcard Store on eBay which provide ample exposure and a structured selling format.

Understanding Postcard Expos

Postcard expos are specialized events where sellers, buyers, and enthusiasts converge. These gatherings allow you to immerse yourself in the community, directly negotiate with sellers, and find pieces that are often not available online.

• Events : Attend expos hosted by various organizations where you can often discover a plethora of postcards ranging from the quaint to the quintessential.
• Networking : Use these expos as an opportunity to network, share knowledge, and perhaps even strike deals outside the confines of typical business days.

In this marketplace, armed with the right knowledge and resources, you can adeptly navigate buying, selling, and enjoying the art of vintage postcards.

Online Platforms and Resources

When you begin your journey into the world of vintage postcards, familiarize yourself with various online platforms and resources tailored for buying, selling, discussing, and learning about these collectible items.

Online Shops and Auctions

Etsy is a notable marketplace for finding vintage postcards, where buyer ratings can guide you to trustworthy sellers. Look for shops that offer tracking on shipments to monitor your purchase’s journey. While browsing, you might come across a previous price indicator, showing you’ve found a good deal, especially if a coupon is also available to further reduce the cost.

• eBay: A larger auction-based platform where the competition could sometimes inflate prices. Pay attention to buyer ratings here as well.
• Gigworker: Offers a four-step guide to selling old postcards.
• CardCow: A site where you can sell your collection or buy from other collectors.

Forums and Community Boards

Forums and community boards allow you to engage with other enthusiasts. Here you can:

• Discuss : Share stories or get advice on rare finds.
• Learn : Gain insights from experienced collectors.
• Connect : Use the contact us options to touch base with site administrators or knowledgeable members for further guidance.

Educational Resources

Educational resources are crucial in understanding the value and history of postcards.

• Shopping Tips : Learn the ins and outs of vintage postcard shopping, including condition grading and authentication procedures.
• Historical Context : Gain knowledge about the eras from which the postcards originate, adding depth to your collection.

By leveraging these online platforms and resources, you position yourself for a more rewarding experience in the realm of vintage postcard collecting.

Logistics of Postcards

In the realm of postcards, efficient logistics are crucial from their production to your mailbox, encompassing the methods of post and shipping as well as the adoption of modern technologies.

Post and Shipping Practices

When you send a postcard, the physical handling and delivery are dictated by standardized practices. Postcards typically follow a specific size and weight limit, allowing them to be mailed at a lower rate than standard letters. The shipping of a postcard is often subject to the workings of business days , which exclude weekends and holidays, affecting delivery time frames.

• Standard Postcard Size : Often not exceeding 4.25″ x 6″ for the lowest cost.
• Weight : Lightweight paper stock to keep within the required ounce limit.

These criteria ensure that postcards pass smoothly through automated sorting machinery. After drop-off, the postcards are processed at a sorting facility where they are postmarked to denote their shipping date and point of origin. They then travel, often by ships or airplanes for international delivery, and are finally distributed by local postal services to the recipient’s address.

Tracking is not typically available for standard postcard delivery due to their low-cost nature.

Technology in Modern-Day Postcard Shipping

Your postcard’s journey has been notably influenced by technology, aiming to increase efficiency and accuracy in shipping. Now, barcodes and automated sorting systems are the norm, ensuring that your missive reaches its destination swiftly.

• Barcodes : Applied during processing, they contain detailed routing information.
• Automated Systems : Sort postcards at high speeds and direct them to the correct dispatch lines for domestic or international shipping.

You’ll find that in some cases, especially with larger postcard suppliers, digital notifications and tracking codes are provided, allowing you to follow your card’s journey in real-time, although this service often comes with an additional fee.

Advanced logistics solutions have also enabled businesses to ship postcards in bulk efficiently, optimizing their operation and reducing the time from print to postbox. The convergence of these logistical aspects ensures postcards continue to be a reliable and cherished means of communication.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, you’ll find concise, expert answers to common questions about the value, collection, and sales of vintage postcards.

How can I determine the value of my vintage postcards?

The value of vintage postcards depends on factors such as rarity, condition, and historical significance. To get an estimate, compare your postcards against similar items sold in online marketplaces or consult with a professional appraiser.

What are the most valuable vintage postcards to collectors?

Postcards that appeal to collectors often include rare designs, historical events, or are from a prolific artist or era. Those in excellent condition or featuring unique subjects may fetch a higher price.

How do I best preserve and protect my vintage postcard collection?

To protect your collection, store postcards in acid-free sleeves, away from light and humidity. Handling should be minimal, but when necessary, do so with clean hands or cotton gloves to avoid oils transferring onto the postcards.

What makes a vintage postcard more likely to be considered valuable?

Several characteristics such as age, visual appeal, printing techniques, and historical significance contribute to a postcard’s value. Scarcity and demand among collectors also play critical roles.

Where is the best place to buy or sell vintage postcards?

You can buy or sell vintage postcards through dedicated online platforms , at antique shows, flea markets, or through auction houses. Local or online dealers specializing in vintage postcards are also viable options.

Are there any legal considerations regarding the use of vintage postcard images?

Yes, copyright laws can affect the use of postcard images, especially if the postcard is not yet in the public domain. Ensure you have the right to use or reproduce the image before making it available, especially for commercial purposes.

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