Collecting Postcards Vintage postcards are quite collectable, as each one is a unique piece of history. Wonderful photographs and artwork of days gone by are enhanced even more by the often charming handwritten messages. Many collectors focus on certain postcard themes such as: advertising, signed artist, transportation, glamour, social history, political, cartoons, animals, regional interest, military, holidays, sports, landscapes, and architecture. Emphemera Emphemera enthusists collect and study paper items that were only intended to be used on a short term basis, such as: tickets, stamps, letters, calendars, and greeting cards. As many vintage postcards also include the original old stamps, used postcards are very desirable as a emphemera collectable. Grading A postcard's condition is generally graded in a range of: Mint, Near Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor. Individual dealers and auction houses tend to have their own systems for grading, and standards vary. Some grade on condition alone, others will grade with consideration given to the age of the card, and whether or not it is a used card. If you are buying postcards for investment purposes, there are some excellent books, associations, and websites with a wealth of information. Classifying by Era: History Of Postcards in the USA The United States Postal Service began issuing pre-stamped postal cards in 1873 as a quick way to send notes. In May 19, 1898 Congress passed the Private Mailing Card Act which allowed private publishers and printers to produce postcards. Private Mailing Cards Period, 1898 - 1901: During this era, messages were not allowed on the back of the card, so a small space was left on the front for notes. Post Card Period, 1901-1907: Cards had the words "Post Card" printed on the back. Divided Back Period, 1907-1914: This was the beginning of what is known as the "Golden Age of American Postcards" when a new card style came into use around 1907, with space for a message on the address side. This period lasted until about 1915. White Border Period, 1915-1930: Named for obvious reasons, this period lasted from about 1915 to 1930. Linen Period, 1930-1944: Most of these cards have a nice linen type texture, due to a new printing process that allowed for printing on papers with a high rag content. Any cards made before this era are referered to as "Pre-Linen" postcards. Modern Photochrome (or 'chrome') Period, 1939 - present: This style of postcards first came about in 1939 and are closest to real photographs. They have a glossy look and feel to them. Storage Archival quality materials are necessary for the proper long term preservation of vintage cards. Openings of albums and holders should always be more than a bit larger than the card itself since the cards can be damaged just by slidding them in and out. Also, look for non-PVC plastics for a protective sleeve. Many better quality photography suppliers now carry these. Display While storage in an archival quality album is ideal for proper preservation of investment quality cards, postcards can also be displayed as works of art. Your favorite scenes and or artist cards may look wonderful matted and framed, alone or in groups. UV protective glass is recommended, as most cards will fade in direct light. Acid free mat board, as well as a protective sleeve barrier before mounting is also highly desirable. Postcards from a favorite family vaction spot, or the old neighborhood would be a great addition to a family scrapbook album if kept in a rigid non-PVC sleeve. | >