Collecting Antique Postcards

Since the summer is in full swing I though I would cover a topic on antique post cards. Collecting antique postcards is a very popular pasttime for many in the antique world. There are several reasons collecting antique postcards for beginning antique collectors. First antique postcards are realatively cheap compared to many other items that are gobbled up by antique dealers. Second reason collecting postcards for beginners is a good way to start is that they are relatively easy to find. And lastly collecting antique postcards on vacation adds a new and exciting twist to the normal tourist shopping you might normally Do.
When collecting antique or new postcards you want to make sure to keep them well protected. Don't bend the postcard or damage the corners. Provide your antique postcards the proper storage that will protect the corners. You should also keep them in holders designed for antique paper products to prevent damage from sunlight and the acids in some papers. Many hobby shops, coin shops and antique dealers will have a supply of these on hand or can tell you where to get them.
Learn the different types of postcards and thier dates. The most valuable postcards are often are the black and white photocards. These will usually have white lettering at the bottom of the face of the card describing the photo on the antique postcard. Many of these old black and white photo cards are highly sought after by authors looking to document a specific topic. Antique postcards that depict ships, boats, trains, early cars, horse track , and old travel destinations tend to bring the highest money at auction in my experience. I once sold a set of old post cards of Saginaw Michigan to a guy writing a book about the early ships of the area. All of the antique postcards I had depicted different steam ships and he used them in his book as illustrations. I even bought the book so I could see my old antique postcards put to use. It was a rewarding experienc to see them used that way.
Collecting antique or new postcard photographs for that matter can be great fun for the whole family. You can use them to document your family vactions and break them out years later to relive those beautiful times. It is also a great way to get involved is stamp collecting Good luck and happy hunting.