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Postcard Valuation Guide

History of Postcards and Valuation Guidance

Evaluating Your Postcard Collection's Value: How MR ALE Patches and Postcards Can Help You Make Competitive Fair Offers

The world of postcard collecting, known as deltiology, has captivated enthusiasts for over a century[1][2]. Whether you've inherited a collection, discovered postcards in an attic, or are simply curious about those old cards gathering dust, understanding their value can be both rewarding and profitable. MR ALE Patches and Postcards is happy to assist collectors and sellers navigate this fascinating market, providing advice, resource, and competitive offers for collections of all sizes[3].

Understanding Postcard Eras: A Journey Through Time

The history of postcards spans multiple distinct eras, each with unique characteristics that significantly impact value[2][4]. Understanding these periods is crucial for anyone looking to evaluate their collection properly.

The Pioneer Era (1870-1898): The Dawn of Postal Cards

The earliest period of American postcard history began when Congress passed legislation in 1861 allowing privately printed cards weighing one ounce or less to be sent by mail[4]. The first official government postal cards were issued in May 1873, with an astounding 31 million cards sold by the end of June alone[2]. These early cards are highly sought after by collectors today, particularly those from the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition in Chicago, which featured some of the first illustrated souvenir cards[2][5].

Private Mailing Card Era (1898-1901): Opening the Market

A pivotal change occurred on May 19, 1898, when Congress passed the Private Mailing Card Act, allowing private printers to produce postcards at the same one-cent rate as government cards[2][4]. These cards were required to state "Private Mailing Card, Authorized by Act of Congress of May 19, 1898" on the back, making them easily identifiable today[4]. This period represents a bridge between the early government monopoly and the explosive growth that would follow.

The Undivided Back Era (1901-1907): Artistic Innovation

On December 24, 1901, private postcards were allowed to use the term "Post Card" instead of the longer private mailing card designation[2][6]. However, the back remained reserved solely for addresses, forcing senders to write messages on the front around the images[6][4]. This constraint led to creative design solutions and often more artistic compositions, as space had to be carefully planned for both image and potential messages.

The Golden Age (1907-1915): Peak Popularity and Cultural Phenomenon

The introduction of the divided back on March 1, 1907, ushered in what collectors universally recognize as the Golden Age of Postcards[2][7][8]. This seemingly simple change—allowing messages on the left side of the back while reserving the right for addresses—revolutionized postcard design and usage. Suddenly, entire images could occupy the front of cards, leading to more detailed and attractive designs[8].

During this remarkable period, postcards became a true cultural phenomenon. By 1908, approximately 700 million postcards were mailed annually in the United States alone[7][9]. The decade between 1905-1915 saw billions of postcards circulating globally, with nearly one billion mailed within the United States during peak years[9]. This period coincided with several factors that made postcards incredibly popular: the expansion of Rural Free Delivery brought mail service to previously underserved areas[2][6], technological advances in photography and printing improved quality[2], and German printing houses dominated production with superior techniques and vibrant colors[2].

The Golden Age represented more than just communication—it was a form of entertainment, art collection, and social connection all rolled into one[7]. Families and individuals collected cards in albums, trading duplicates and seeking out rare examples. The postcard craze was particularly popular among rural and small-town women in Northern U.S. states[2]. Professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts alike contributed to the vast array of available subjects, from scenic views to street scenes, from disaster documentation to everyday life[10].

The White Border Era (1915-1930): Wartime Adaptations

World War I marked the end of the Golden Age as German printing houses became inaccessible due to the British naval blockade[2]. American publishers responded by creating cards with distinctive white borders around images—a design choice that served multiple purposes[2][11]. The white borders saved precious ink during wartime shortages and allowed for less precise cutting during production, reducing manufacturing costs[2]. However, American printing technology lagged behind German standards, resulting in generally lower quality cards that contributed to declining public interest[2].

The Linen Era (1930-1945): Innovation Through Adversity

The economic challenges of the Great Depression and World War II led to another innovation in postcard production[2][11]. Despite their name, "linen" postcards weren't actually printed on linen fabric but used card stock with high rag content finished with a textured pattern resembling linen[2]. This technique allowed for much more vibrant and colorful images compared to earlier white border cards[2]. The Curt Teich Company became famous during this period for their "large letter linen" postcards, featuring enormous letters spelling out state or place names with smaller scenic images inside each letter[2]. These designs remain iconic and collectible today.

The Photochrome Era (1939-Present): Modern Quality and Decline

Beginning in 1939 and continuing to the present, photochrome postcards represent the modern era of postcard production[2]. These cards feature glossy finishes and photographic-quality reproduction, representing significant technical improvements over earlier printing methods[11]. However, despite their superior production quality, photochrome postcards generally command much lower prices among collectors, as the advent of faster communication methods like telephone, television, and eventually the internet dramatically reduced postcards' role in everyday communication[12].

Key Factors That Determine Postcard Value

Understanding what makes one postcard worth $5 and another worth $500 requires examining multiple interconnected factors[13][14][15]. Professional appraisers and experienced dealers like MR ALE Patches and Postcards consider each of these elements when evaluating collections.

Age and Historical Era

While age alone doesn't guarantee value, certain periods command premium prices[14][13]. Golden Age cards (1907-1915) consistently perform well at auction, with even common examples from this period maintaining steady values[13][9]. Pioneer era cards (1870-1898) are extremely rare and valuable when found in good condition[4]. Conversely, cards from the 1960s onward typically have minimal value unless they feature unusual subjects or printing errors[16].

Condition: The Make-or-Break Factor

Condition represents perhaps the most critical factor in determining postcard value[13][14][16][17]. The postcard grading scale ranges from poor to mint condition, with each level dramatically affecting price[17]. A postcard in mint condition can be worth ten times more than the same card in poor condition[13]. Professional collectors and dealers look for several condition indicators: corner sharpness and integrity[16], surface scratches or stains[16], color fading or discoloration[17], creases or bends[16], writing or markings on the image side[14], and overall paper integrity[17].

Even minor flaws can significantly impact value. A small corner crease might reduce a card's value by 25-50%, while major damage like tears or heavy staining can make otherwise valuable cards nearly worthless[16][17]. This is why proper storage and handling of collections is crucial—cards should be kept in protective sleeves, away from direct sunlight, and in stable temperature and humidity conditions[18].

Rarity and Scarcity: Supply and Demand Economics

Rarity functions as the supply side of the value equation[13][15]. Several factors contribute to postcard rarity: limited original print runs, particularly common with small-town real photo postcards[19][20], survival rates, as many postcards were discarded after use[15], geographic specificity, with cards from smaller locations typically scarcer than those from major cities[13], unique subjects or events that were documented by only one or a few photographers[19], and printing errors or variations that create unintentional rarities[14].

Small-town postcards often prove more valuable than those from major cities because fewer were originally produced and fewer have survived[13][14]. A postcard from a town with 1,000 residents will typically be worth more than a similar card from a major metropolitan area, all other factors being equal[15].

Subject Matter: Content Drives Collector Interest

The subject depicted on a postcard significantly influences its desirability among collectors[13][14]. Certain categories consistently command higher prices: **Street scenes** showing buildings, businesses, vehicles, and people from earlier eras are highly sought after for their documentary value[21][22][23]. **Transportation subjects** including railroad depots, trains, early automobiles, and aviation scenes appeal to both postcard collectors and transportation enthusiasts[24][25][22]. **Disaster and tragedy cards** documenting fires, floods, accidents, or other significant events often represent unique historical documentation[21][22]. **Business and commercial scenes** showing storefronts, factories, or industrial operations provide valuable insights into economic history[21]. **Social history subjects** capturing parades, celebrations, political events, or daily life activities offer glimpses into past cultures[10]. **Real photo portraits and groups**, especially those with identified individuals or interesting period clothing and settings[19][10].

Conversely, some subjects typically have lower values: generic scenic views without specific identifying features[14], modern cards from tourist destinations[13], and reproductions or modern reprints of vintage images[13].

Geographic Location and Regional Interest

Location plays a complex role in postcard valuation[14][13]. Local and regional collectors often drive demand for postcards from their areas, creating premium markets for specific locations[14]. Small towns and rural areas typically produce more valuable postcards than major cities due to lower original production quantities[13][20]. Western states, particularly California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Washington, tend to command higher prices for vintage postcards[22]. International cards, especially from less developed countries during the early 20th century, can be quite valuable due to their exotic nature and limited availability[26].

However, location value can be highly specific—a postcard worth $50 in its local market might have minimal value elsewhere[14]. This geographic specificity is something experienced dealers like MR ALE Patches and Postcards understand well, as they maintain knowledge of regional collecting markets and can properly assess location-based value.

Real Photo vs. Printed Postcards: The Photography Premium

Real Photo Postcards (RPPCs) typically command higher values than printed lithographic cards[21][19][10][27]. Introduced by Kodak in 1903 with their postcard-sized cameras, RPPCs represent actual photographs developed onto postcard stock rather than mass-produced printed images[10][27]. Several factors make RPPCs more valuable: they often capture unique moments or locations that were never commercially photographed[10], many are one-of-a-kind or exist in very small quantities[19], the photographic quality provides superior detail and documentary value[10][27], and they represent the work of both professional and amateur photographers documenting their communities[10][27].

The most valuable RPPCs typically show street scenes, business districts, transportation subjects, or significant local events[19][22]. A quality RPPC of a small town's main street might sell for $20-200 or more, while a similar printed postcard might only bring $5-15[21][19].

Publisher, Artist, and Photographer Recognition

Certain publishers, artists, and photographers command premium prices among collectors[13][18]. **Famous publishers** like Raphael Tuck & Sons, Curt Teich Company, and Detroit Publishing Company produced high-quality cards that remain popular[28]. **Artist-signed cards**, particularly those by recognized illustrators or local artists, often bridge the gap between postcard collecting and art collecting[13][18]. **Photographer attribution**, especially for RPPCs by known local or regional photographers, can significantly increase value[29]. **Special series or sets**, particularly holiday or theme-related cards produced in coordinated sets, often have enhanced value when kept together[28].

Research into publisher and artist information can reveal hidden value in seemingly ordinary postcards. Some publishers specialized in particular regions or subjects, making their cards more sought after by focused collectors[30].

Historical Significance and Documentation Value

Postcards that document historical events, demolished buildings, or vanished ways of life gain additional value beyond their basic postcard worth[31][24][29]. Cards showing buildings or businesses that no longer exist serve as important historical documents[31][29]. Those depicting significant events like disasters, parades, or political gatherings provide unique contemporary documentation[32][31]. Images documenting transportation history, including early automobiles, railroad scenes, or aviation subjects, appeal to specialized collectors[24][25]. Social history documentation, such as cards showing fashion, customs, or daily life from past eras, offers valuable cultural insights[33][10].

This historical documentation aspect means that some postcards may increase in value over time as the subjects they depict become more historically distant and significant[31].

Specialized High-Value Categories

Certain postcard categories consistently command premium prices and deserve special attention during collection evaluation[22][23][30].

Railroad and Transportation Themes

Railroad postcards represent one of the most consistently valuable categories in postcard collecting[24][34][25][35]. Train depots, locomotive scenes, railroad bridges, and railway construction projects all appeal to both postcard collectors and railroad enthusiasts[25]. The intersection of these collecting communities creates strong demand and stable values[25]. RPPCs of small-town railroad stations are particularly valuable, often selling for $50-300 or more depending on location and rarity[22]. Cards documenting railroad disasters, construction projects, or significant railway events can command even higher prices[25].

Street Scenes and Business Districts

Real photo street scenes represent some of the most valuable postcards in the hobby[21][22][23]. These cards document daily life, architecture, transportation, and commerce from a century ago, providing irreplaceable historical records[21]. The value of street scene cards depends on several factors: the level of detail and activity shown[22], the presence of businesses, signage, or vehicles[21], the size and obscurity of the town depicted[23], and the overall condition and photographic quality[21].

Small-town main streets often prove most valuable because they were less frequently photographed and fewer cards survive[20]. A busy street scene showing multiple businesses, early automobiles, and pedestrians from a small town might sell for $100-500 or more[22][23].

Disaster and Tragedy Documentation

Postcards documenting disasters, accidents, or tragedies serve as important historical records and typically command premium prices[21][22]. Fire scenes, flood damage, train wrecks, building collapses, and natural disasters were popular subjects for both commercial publishers and amateur photographers[36]. These cards often represent the only visual documentation of significant local events, making them valuable to both collectors and historical societies[29][36].

The value of disaster cards depends on the significance of the event, the quality of the documentation, and the rarity of surviving examples[22]. Major disasters that affected entire communities typically produce the most valuable cards[36].

Holiday and Seasonal Cards

Early holiday postcards, particularly Halloween cards from the Golden Age, represent a specialized high-value category[22][37][38]. These cards combined artistic design with seasonal appeal, creating lasting collector interest[38]. Halloween postcards featuring witches, jack-o'-lanterns, black cats, and spooky scenes from the 1907-1915 period can sell for $20-800 or more, with the most artistic and unusual examples commanding the highest prices[38].

Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day, and other holiday cards also have dedicated collecting markets, though generally with lower values than Halloween examples[13]. The artistic quality, publisher, and condition all influence holiday card values significantly[38].

The Role of Professional Appraisal Services

Professional postcard appraisal services like MR ALE Patches and Postcards provide several valuable functions for collectors and potential sellers[39][1][40]. Experienced appraisers bring specialized knowledge that typical collectors lack, including: comprehensive understanding of market values across different categories and regions[1][40], recognition of rare publishers, artists, or photographers[40], awareness of current market trends and collector demand[41], expertise in condition assessment and its impact on value[16][40], and knowledge of proper preservation and storage techniques[18].

Professional appraisals become particularly valuable for several situations: **Insurance purposes**, ensuring adequate coverage for valuable collections[40], **Estate planning**, establishing fair market values for inheritance or tax purposes[40], **Charitable donations**, providing documentation required for tax deductions[41], **Sale preparation**, identifying the most valuable items that deserve individual attention versus those suitable for bulk sales[41], and **Collection assessment**, helping collectors understand which areas of their holdings deserve focused attention or additional research[40].

The appraisal process typically involves detailed examination of each card or representative samples from large collections[40]. Professional appraisers document condition, identify rare or valuable items, research comparable sales, and provide detailed written reports suitable for insurance or legal purposes[40][41].

Making Fair and Competitive Offers

Understanding the offer-making process helps both buyers and seller achieve fair transactions[42]. Several factors influence the offers made for postcard collections:

Market Knowledge and Research

Professional dealers invest significant time researching current market values through multiple sources[41]. They track auction results, monitor dealer sales, observe regional price variations, and maintain awareness of collecting trends[41]. This comprehensive market knowledge allows them to make informed offers that reflect true current values rather than outdated price guides or wishful thinking[21][41].

Collection Assessment Methodology

Professional evaluation involves systematic examination of collections[40]. Dealers typically sort cards by era, subject, condition, and potential value[41]. High-value individual cards are identified for separate consideration[21], while common cards are evaluated in groups[41]. The overall condition and organization of the collection affects the evaluation process and final offers[41].

Regional and local interest factors into the assessment[14]. Cards with strong local appeal might be valued higher than their general market worth, while items with limited regional interest might be priced more conservatively[13].

Fair Pricing Strategies

Reputable dealers aim for win-win transactions where both parties benefit[42]. For sellers, this means receiving fair compensation that reflects actual market values[41]. For dealers, it means acquiring inventory at prices that allow for reasonable profit margins while still providing value to eventual collectors[41].

Factors affecting fair pricing include: the dealer's intended sales method (individual sales vs. bulk disposal)[41], regional market knowledge and access to appropriate buyer networks[14], condition and storage requirements for the collection[18], and time and resources required for proper evaluation, cataloging, and sales[41].

Conclusion

The world of postcard collecting offers fascinating insights into history, art, and popular culture while providing potential financial rewards for knowledgeable participants[9][10]. Understanding the various eras of postcard production, from the Pioneer period through the Golden Age to modern photochrome cards, provides essential context for evaluation[2][4]. Recognizing the key factors that influence value—including age, condition, rarity, subject matter, and historical significance—helps collectors and sellers make informed decisions[13][14][21].

MR ALE Patches and Postcards can bridge the gap between casual collectors and the complex postcard marketplace[3]. Their expertise in evaluation, market knowledge, and fair pricing practices helps ensure that valuable collections receive appropriate recognition and compensation[40][41]. Whether you're discovering a family collection, considering a purchase, or looking to sell postcards, understanding these principles will help you navigate the rewarding world of deltiology with confidence and success[1][41].

The enduring appeal of postcards lies in their unique combination of historical documentation, artistic merit, and personal connection to the past[31][10]. As windows into earlier eras of American life, these small pieces of cardboard continue to captivate collectors and provide valuable insights into our shared cultural heritage[12][31]. With proper evaluation and appreciation, postcard collections can provide both financial value and immeasurable historical significance for future generations[31][29].

Sources

[1] Postcard Appraisals | Online Expert Appraisals in 24-Hours https://www.valuemystuff.com/us/categories/stamps/postcards

[2] History of postcards in the United States - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_postcards_in_the_United_States

[3] New! MR ALE Patches and Postcards Ad Rick Geary Artist 4"x6 ... https://www.pinterest.com/pin/new-mr-ale-patches-and-postcards-ad-rick-geary-artist-4x6-postcard-unp-126493-was-just-added-to-ebay-check-it-out-ebay-ebays-in-2025--762586149443182829/

[4] Vintage Postcard History https://www.vintage-american.com/vintage-postcard-history/

[5] Postcard published date | Center of Southwest Studies https://www.fortlewis.edu/finding_aids/images/M194/PostcardDating.htm

[6] Post Card Period (1901–1907) – Greetings from Delaware https://exhibitions.lib.udel.edu/greetings-from-delaware/home/post-card-period-1901-1907/

[7] The Capitol and the Golden Age of Postcards - History, Art & Archives https://history.house.gov/Exhibitions-and-Publications/Postcards/Introduction/

[8] Golden Age of Postcards (1907–1915) – Greetings from Delaware https://exhibitions.lib.udel.edu/greetings-from-delaware/home/golden-age-of-postcards-1907-1915/

[9] United States Postcards: A Collector's Guide to Value, Preservation ... https://vocal.media/art/united-states-postcards-a-collector-s-guide-to-value-preservation-and-cultural-significance

[10] Real Photo Postcards | Museum of Fine Arts Boston https://www.mfa.org/exhibition/real-photo-postcards

[11] The Origin and History of Postcards | NextDayFlyers https://www.nextdayflyers.com/origin-and-history-of-postcards.html

[13] Postcard Values: What Determines the Worth of Your Vintage Cards https://www.marylmartin.com/news/postcard-values-what-determines-the-worth-of-your-vintage-cards/

[14] Grading and Valuing Your Vintage Postcards https://postcardpeddler.com/article-705.html

[15] A Complete Guide to Collecting and Valuing Old Postcards https://mailseum.com/a-complete-guide-to-collecting-and-valuing-old-postcards/

[16] The ultimate postcard grading guide: How to value vintage postcards https://www.warwickandwarwick.com/news/guides/how-to-value-old-postcards

[17] How to Value Postcards | ValueMyStuff Highlights https://www.valuemystuff.com/us/blog/how-to-value-postcards

[18] How to sell old postcards (8 easy-to-follow actions) https://www.warwickandwarwick.com/news/guides/how-to-sell-old-postcards

[19] Real Photo Postcards: An In-Depth Guide to RPPC Postcards https://www.britannicauctions.com/blog/rppc-postcards/

[20] Any experienced postcard sellers here? I'm trying to figure out what ... https://www.reddit.com/r/Flipping/comments/4l6say/any_experienced_postcard_sellers_here_im_trying/

[21] How To Value Old Postcards: Do You Have Hidden Treasures Worth ... https://mailseum.com/guide-to-value-old-postcards/

[22] Top 10 Most Valuable Postcards in 2024 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIi329HtmNc

[23] Top 20 Most Valuable Postcards in 2023 - YouTube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njxj7IsCDmE

[24] Sampling a New Collection: Historical Postcards of Railroad Depots https://news.lib.wvu.edu/2020/03/06/sampling-a-new-collection-historical-postcards-of-railroad-depots/

[25] Railroad Postcards - Railroadiana Online https://www.railroadiana.org/paper/pgPostcards.php

[26] Postcard Auctions | Vintage & Old Postcards For Sale https://www.warwickandwarwick.com/departments/postcard-auctions

[27] Real photo postcard - Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Real_photo_postcard

[28] Vintage Postcard Auctions | Antique & Collectible Postcards https://www.britannicauctions.com/vintage-postcards/

[29] Real photo postcards may have historical value - The Journal https://www.the-journal.com/articles/real-photo-postcards-may-have-historical-value/

[30] Top 20 Most Valuable Old Postcards - Mailseum https://mailseum.com/top-20-most-valuable-old-postcards/

[31] The Evidentiary Value of Late Nineteenth and Early Twentieth Century Postcards for Heritage Studies https://www.mdpi.com/2571-9408/4/3/81/pdf

[32] THE WAR ALBUM “CONQUERED RUSSIAN FORTRESSES”: NEW PERSPECTIVES IN THE STUDY OF THE HISTORY OF THE FIRST WORLD WAR (1914 – 1918) http://intermarum.zu.edu.ua/article/view/317803

[33] ‘Foodstagramming’ in early 20th-century postcards: a transhistorical perspective https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/14703572221096715

[34] Railroad station postcards collection - Hagley Digital Archives https://digital.hagley.org/95299

[35] Vintage Railroad Postcards | Collectors Weekly https://www.collectorsweekly.com/railroadiana/postcards

[36] Old Real Picture Postcard After FIRE April 3 1910 Hotel Corner ... https://www.pinterest.com/pin/old-real-picture-postcard-after-fire-april-3-1910-hotel-corner-rose-city-mi--530298924871282297/

[37] July 2021 - Valuable Rare Postcards https://www.valuablepostcards.com/2021/07/

[38] Valuable Rare Postcards https://www.valuablepostcards.com

[39] Appraisals - Detail - American Stamp Dealers Association https://www.americanstampdealer.com/Specialities/Appraisals.aspx

[40] Appraisals & Acquisitions - Washington Crossing Card Collectors Club http://www.wc4postcards.org/appraisalsandacquisitions.html

[41] How To Value (and Sell) a Postcard Collection - Mailseum https://mailseum.com/how-to-value-and-sell-a-postcard-collection/

[42] We Buy Collections - Mary L. Martin Ltd. Postcards https://www.marylmartin.com/we-buy-collections/

MR ALE Patches and Postcards

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MR ALE PATCHES AND POSTCARDS

ERAS OF POSTCARDS ON MR ALE's EBAY STORE (CLICK ON IMAGE for ERa INFO)

EXAMPLES of Patches available at MR ALE's EBAY STORE

Postcard Valuation Guide

History of Postcards and Valuation Guidance

SAMPLE ITEMS ON MR ALE EBAY STORE

MR ALE Patches and Postcards

Welcome

My Background

We Buy Collections

We Buy Collections

We Buy Collections

Postcards and Patches of Interest

Postcards and Patches of Interest

Contact Us

Feel free to contact us about your collection. If wanting to sell your collection, please include how many postcards or patches and general information (eras/types/topic areas if known) in your message below.

We value your privacy and will not sell or share your email.

MR ALE PATCHES AND POSTCARDS

ERAS OF POSTCARDS ON MR ALE's EBAY STORE (CLICK ON IMAGE for ERa INFO)

EXAMPLES of Patches available at MR ALE's EBAY STORE

Postcard Valuation Guide

History of Postcards and Valuation Guidance

SAMPLE ITEMS ON MR ALE EBAY STORE

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