What Sells: Postcards & Paper
Postcards & Paper
People collect paper goods for a wide variety of reasons; classic car enthusiasts
often collect brochures that feature their rides; employees collect old ads for
companies for which they’ve worked; Broadway fans collect old playbills featuring
their favorite performers; and so on.
Paper goods do not have to be old to be valuable, although vintage items are generally
in higher demand, particularly items from companies that are no longer in business.
What Sells
- Advertising blotters
- Brochures and catalogs
- Greeting cards
- Matchbooks
- Menus from airlines, cruise ships, trains and restaurants
- Newspapers
- Playbills
- Postcards
Research Resources
Most paper goods do not require much research since all the relevant information
is printed on the item. Still, collectors’ clubs can be useful resources:
The Antique Advertising Association of America has articles and photos. Visit the
website at http://www.pastimes.org/.
The following matchcover collector websites have pictures and information about
the hobby: http://www.matchcover.org/
and http://www.matchcovers.com.
Condition
Paper deteriorates with age if not stored properly, and the value decreases. Note
these signs of damage in your listing:
- Tears, creases and dog-eared corners
- Brittleness
- Missing pages
- Yellowing, fading, foxing and other discoloration
- Stains, pen marks and water damage
- Odors (especially cigarette smoke and musty odors from storage)
Key Details
Include these details in your listing:
- Name of business, persons, places or events associated with the item
- Item description
- Age (if known)
- Number of items in lot
- Description of images (e.g., “Cute kittens in pink basket”)
Postcards are often sold in large lots (hundreds or more). When creating smaller
lots, group by subject or by age.
Storage and Shipment
Store items in a well-ventilated room, away from children, pets, smoke and cooking
odors. Never place an item in direct sunlight. Don’t place an item next to heating
vents or air conditioners, either, since temperature/humidity changes can cause
damage.
If an item includes a protective covering, place the item in it, surround it on
both sides with new cardboard cut to fit the item and slip it into a bubble wrap
envelope or box and cushion with plain tissue paper, packing peanuts or bubble wrap
for shipment to the buyer.
The size and delicacy of a paper collectible can require special shipping.
