How to Identify Antique Postcards: A Beginner's Guide

Postcards have been a popular form of communication and artistic expression since the late 19th century. They offer a glimpse into the past, revealing not just scenic landscapes and historical events, but also the cultural and social context of their era. Collecting antique postcards has become a rewarding hobby for many people, blending the thrill of historical discovery with the joy of acquiring unique pieces of art. However, for beginners, identifying antique postcards can seem daunting. This guide aims to demystify the process and provide you with practical tools to identify antique postcards with confidence.

Understanding the History of Postcards

Before diving into the identification process, it's important to understand the history and evolution of postcards. Knowing the historical context will help you spot features that define specific periods and styles.

Early Beginnings

The first postcards appeared in Europe in the late 1800s, with the earliest known examples coming from Austria and Germany. These early postcards were often plain and lacked images, featuring only a small space for a brief message. As demand grew, postcards became more elaborate and started featuring photographs, illustrations, and designs that appealed to both senders and recipients.

By the 1890s, postcards became more common worldwide, and printing technologies improved. This led to an explosion in postcard production, with millions of postcards being sent across the globe by the early 20th century.

The Golden Age of Postcards

The period between 1900 and 1910 is often considered the "Golden Age" of postcards. During this time, color printing became more widely available, and postcards began to feature vibrant images of landscapes, landmarks, cityscapes, and social events. This era also saw the rise of "real photo postcards" (RPPCs), which were actual photographs printed onto postcards.

The boom in postcard production continued through the 1920s and 1930s, but by the 1940s, the popularity of postcards began to decline with the advent of new forms of communication, such as telephones and later, emails. However, postcards have remained a beloved collectible to this day.

The Rise of Postcard Collecting

Postcard collecting began as a hobby in the early 20th century and has grown into a niche market. Postcards from the Golden Age, as well as from World War I and II, are among the most sought-after. Collectors are attracted not only by the historical significance of the postcards but also by their visual appeal and rarity.

Key Features to Examine When Identifying Antique Postcards

When trying to identify an antique postcard, there are several key features you should examine. These features can help you determine the age, origin, and type of postcard. Here are the most important elements to focus on:

1. Postcard Back

The back of the postcard can offer important clues about its age and origin.

• Divided Back (Post-1907): One of the most significant milestones in postcard history was the introduction of the divided back in 1907. This allowed for a larger area for the message, while the address was written on the right-hand side. Before this, postcards had no division between the message and the address, and the message had to be written on the front.
• Undivided Back (Pre-1907): Prior to 1907, postcards featured an undivided back, with no separation between the message and the recipient's address. If your postcard has an undivided back, it's likely from the early 1900s or earlier.
• Postcard Stamp Box: Check for a space or box for stamps. The presence of this box can help you date the postcard, as earlier postcards often had spaces where stamps could be affixed.

2. Postmark and Writing

The postmark is one of the most useful features for identifying the date of a postcard. A clear postmark can help you pinpoint the exact year and even the day the postcard was sent. The design of the postmark may also provide clues as to its country of origin.

Additionally, handwriting can offer insights into the era. Early postcards often featured handwritten messages, while later postcards may feature printed messages with small handwritten additions.

3. Images and Illustrations

The type of image or illustration on the front of a postcard can tell you a lot about its age and origin. Some key details to look for:

• Photographic Images: Real Photo Postcards (RPPCs) were common from around 1900 to the 1930s. These are actual photographs printed onto postcards and often feature personal snapshots, street scenes, or historical events. The quality of the photo, the subject matter, and the style can help determine the time period.
• Artistic Illustrations: Many early postcards featured hand-drawn illustrations or lithographic prints. Look for the style of artwork---postcards from the early 1900s often have intricate, highly detailed illustrations, while later postcards may have more modern or commercialized designs.
• Printed Text: The presence of text on the front of the postcard, such as the name of a city or a short greeting, can also provide a clue about its era. For instance, postcards from the early 20th century may feature ornate fonts and scripted text.

4. Postcard Size and Material

Antique postcards typically follow certain size conventions. Most postcards from the early 1900s were approximately 5.5 x 3.5 inches, though slight variations exist. If your postcard is much smaller or larger, it could be a later reproduction or a unique design.

In terms of material, antique postcards are often made of thick cardboard, while newer postcards may be printed on thinner paper or glossy material. If the material feels very light or flimsy, the postcard is likely a modern reproduction.

5. Publisher and Printer Information

Many antique postcards have small printing credits or publisher marks on the bottom or back of the card. These can include the name of the printer or the publisher, often in the form of a small logo or address. Some common publishers and printers include:

• The U.S. and European Publishing Houses: Large publishing companies like "C.T. Art-Colortone" or "The Souvenir Post Card Company" printed many postcards in the early 20th century.
• Local Printers: Many postcards were printed by local printing companies, particularly those that produced tourist postcards for specific regions or events.

Researching these names can help you learn more about the specific time period or location in which the postcard was produced.

6. Border Style and Design

Postcards from the early 20th century often featured distinctive border designs, which can be used to date the postcard. For example:

• White Borders: Postcards printed from 1915 to the 1930s often have a thin white border around the image, as they were printed using a process that required extra space for framing.
• Undivided Borders: Older postcards from the late 19th century may feature undivided borders around the image. These were generally created before the introduction of the divided back.

Postcards with ornate, decorative borders often date back to the early 1900s, while simpler designs emerged in later decades.

Determining the Value of Your Antique Postcard

Once you've identified the age and origin of your antique postcard, you might wonder how to assess its value. Several factors influence the value of antique postcards:

1. Rarity and Demand

The rarity of a postcard is one of the primary factors determining its value. Postcards featuring rare subjects, such as unique photographs, historical events, or specific regional landmarks, tend to be more valuable. Additionally, limited edition postcards or postcards printed in small quantities may also command higher prices.

2. Condition

The condition of the postcard plays a significant role in its value. Postcards in excellent condition, with no visible wear or damage, are worth more than those with creases, stains, or faded images. Collectors typically look for postcards that have been well-preserved, ideally kept in a protective sleeve or album.

3. Age and Historical Significance

Older postcards, especially those from significant historical events or popular tourist destinations, tend to hold more value. Postcards from the early 20th century, especially those from the Golden Age of Postcards, are often more sought after. Postcards related to major global events, such as World War I and II, can also command premium prices.

4. Provenance

If you know the history of a particular postcard---whether it was sent by a famous person, associated with a notable event, or has a unique backstory---it may have added value for collectors. Provenance can be difficult to verify but is often considered a bonus when determining the value of an antique postcard.

Conclusion

Identifying and collecting antique postcards is a fascinating hobby that allows you to connect with the past in a unique and meaningful way. By paying attention to the details such as the postcard back, images, writing, and printing information, you can learn to identify postcards from different eras with greater confidence. While identifying antique postcards can take some practice, it's an enjoyable journey that reveals hidden treasures from history, art, and culture. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting out, taking the time to learn about postcards will enhance your understanding and appreciation of these historical artifacts.

View Product