For collectors, few hobbies capture the allure of travel and distant locales quite like amassing postcards. These miniature windows into different worlds have delighted humans for over 150 years. If you’re thinking of starting a postcard collection, here are some tips to begin your journey.
Why Collect Postcards?
Beyond the ability to visually travel from the comfort of home, postcard collecting appeals for several reasons. Postcards are affordable pieces of art and cultural artifacts providing glimpses into storied destinations. They’re compact yet deeply evocative souvenirs. For history buffs, vintage postcards offer fascinating peek into how places transformed over time. And the thrill of the hunt never gets old for enthusiasts seeking rare or obscure cards.
What to Collect POSTCARDS
The beauty of postcard collecting lies in your ability to personalize your interests. Maybe you want a collection showcasing your dream destinations like Paris, Bali, and the Italian coastline. Or perhaps you prefer cards exhibiting certain themes – art, architecture, maps, food, or transportation. You could chase specific publishers, artists, or photographic styles. Narrowing your focus can help direct your collection.
Where to Find Postcards
While you can purchase postcards from museums, tourist shops, and online retailers, part of the fun lies in scouring antique stores, flea markets, postcard shows, and trade fairs for unique finds. Check for any postcard clubs hosting swaps in your local area. Be on the lookout for bundled lots and collections being sold secondhand – these can jumpstart your stockpile.
Storing and Displaying
You’ll want to invest in acid-free storage boxes, photo albums or clear sleeves to properly preserve your postcards. This protects them from moisture while allowing you to view both sides. Create subcategories within your albums for easier browsing. Rotating displays or creating themed collages lets you share your collection’s highlights.
As your interest grows, you may want to connect with other postcard collectors through online forums and social media groups. Here you can swap duplicates, discuss your passion, learn about shows, and get inspiration for future acquisitions. Many postal museums and historical societies also host events.