Collecting Cards – What to look for when collecting vintage post cards

Collecting postcards—often called deltiology—is one of the world’s most popular and accessible hobbies. What collectors look for can vary widely depending on their interests, but here’s a breakdown of the main factors that make a postcard desirable:

What Makes a Postcard Collectible?

1. Age

• Pre-1907 (Pioneer era) postcards are rare and valuable.
• 1907–1915 (Divided back/Golden Age) is the most popular collecting period.
• 1915–1930s (White Border/Art Deco) are next in desirability.
• 1940s–1960s (Linen/Chrome) appeal to nostalgia collectors.
• Modern cards are often less valuable unless very unique.

2. Subject Matter (Thematic Collecting)

Collectors often specialize in topics like:

• Real Photo Postcards (RPPCs) – actual photographs on postcard stock (very collectible).
• Town views / Main streets / Hotels – especially if the place no longer exists.
• Trains, ships, planes, cars – transportation themes are huge.
• Historical events – disasters, parades, wars, protests.
• Holidays – Halloween and Christmas postcards from the early 1900s are particularly collectible.
• Art Nouveau / Art Deco illustrations.
• Ethnic / cultural depictions (though often outdated and controversial, these are studied for historical context).

3. Condition

• Mint condition (no creases, marks, or fading) is best.
• Light wear is usually acceptable, especially on very old cards.
• Writing on the front (especially over the image) typically lowers value.
• Postmarked cards are sometimes more collectible due to the history.

4. Postmark & Stamp

• Unusual postmarks (e.g., from a ghost town) or rare stamps can increase value.
• “First Day of Issue” or WWI/WWII-era field postmarks are of special interest.

5. Publisher or Artist

• Some artists (e.g., Ellen Clapsaddle, Raphael Tuck, or Louis Wain) are highly collectible.
• Publishing companies like Raphael Tuck & Sons, Curt Teich, or Bamforth often had high-quality or humorous cards.

6. Scarcity / Rarity

• Unique or extremely hard-to-find views, especially of small towns, one-room schoolhouses, or buildings that no longer exist, are in demand.
• Limited print runs or error prints can also command higher prices.

Types of Collectors

🛠 Tips If You’re Starting to Collect or Sell

• Sort by theme or location: Easy for buyers to browse.
• Use archival storage: Protects cards from fading, moisture, or wear.
• Check completed sales on eBay: Great way to assess value.
• Avoid tape or glue: Keep cards in sleeves or albums without adhesives.
• Attend postcard shows or join a club: Great for networking and learning.

💰 Value Range (Typical Examples)