by W D Adkins

Created on: May 07, 2008   Last Updated: November 25, 2008

Collecting old postcards is fun and occasionally can make you a little money, although it's not the sort of collectible that offers the chance of large windfalls for spotting a long lost art treasure. On the other hand, this means it is an affordable hobby for most people. For many the real attraction is the fascinating glimpses into the past that antique postcards offer. Whatever the reasons for your interest, it helps to know how vintage and antique postcards are appraised. You will have a much better chance of spotting postcards that have value. So let's look at the different factors that affect the value of old postcards (and a few ideas about where you can search for them).

Postcards have been around since the 1800s, and are usually considered to be antique if they date from before the 1940s, when "photoview" cards became popular. Later postcards are classed as "vintage." Not surprisingly, the antique cards are more valuable, although the rarity of the particular postcard affects its value even more than its age.

Condition is very important. Antique postcards in mint condition, without tears or folds, are the most sought after. In order to preserve the cards and retain their value, be sure to store them in a dry place and in either a plastic or acid-free paper folder. Another thing to be aware of is the condition of the ink used for the message written on the postcard. If it is fading, photograph it so that in future years, the text can still be deciphered.

One thing to be aware of is that many early-century card designs have been reproduced. Some of these reproductions have a little value as collectibles themselves, but it is not great. Original issue cards are the ones collectors really want. The postmark is also important. A government postmark adds to the value of the card, since it verifies the card's age. Many 19th and early 20th century cards have hand-written postmarks, but these are acceptable if they can be authenticated.

The type of card has a great deal to do with its value. Postcards are classed by antique dealers as "ephemera," meaning paper goods that were originally intended to be used once and disposed of. This is particularly true of holiday cards, which were usually thrown away after a holiday was over. Generally, the most prized are usually Halloween cards, closely followed by Christmas cards. Cards commemorating other celebrations are also popular. Wartime cards (for example, issued during the First World War) are also in demand.

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