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If you’re selling vintage postcards, it’s important to know the correct terminology, especially when describing the condition and features of the cards. Buyers, particularly collectors, want accurate details so they know what they’re getting. This guide covers the common terms you’ll come across, including the different types of postcards and how to describe damage.
Types of Vintage Postcards
- Real Photo Postcard (RPPC)
These postcards feature actual photographic prints, typically on a standard postcard back. They are usually from the early 20th century and are highly collectable. You can often tell by looking for a silver sheen under light. - Divided Back
These are postcards from around 1907 onwards. They have a line down the back, with one side for the address and the other for the message. Before this, only the address was allowed on the back. - Undivided Back
Earlier postcards (pre-1907) where the entire back is reserved for the address. The message would be written on the front, often on the border. - Embossed
These cards have a raised or textured design. It’s common in early 20th-century postcards, adding a three-dimensional feel to the image. - Lithograph
A type of printed postcard using a lithography process, often resulting in vibrant colours. These were popular in the early 1900s. - Hand-tinted
Black-and-white photographs or prints that have been hand-coloured, often with watercolour, to give the image more vibrancy. - Real Photo
A postcard printed using an actual photographic process rather than being reproduced by printing techniques. These are usually one-of-a-kind or part of small print runs. - Linen Postcard
Linen postcards were popular from the 1930s to the 1950s. They are made from textured paper that resembles fabric, giving them a distinctive, woven feel. This texture, along with vibrant inks, gives linen postcards a unique look, often with bright, saturated colours. These cards were commonly used for travel, advertising, and scenic views, and are highly collectable today due to their nostalgic charm and durability. - Novelty Postcard
These cards include elements like glitter, fold-outs, or mechanical parts. Some may even have fabric or other materials attached.
Vintage Postcard Damage Terminology
When describing the condition of a vintage postcard, it’s important to be honest about any damage or wear. Here’s a breakdown of the most common terms used to describe the condition of postcards:
- Corner Wear
This refers to any damage to the corners, such as bending, rounding, or fraying. Over time, corners can get knocked about, especially if a card has been stored or handled poorly. - Crease
A crease is a line or fold in the card where it has been bent. This can weaken the card, especially if the crease is deep. - Toning
This happens when the postcard has discoloured with age. It usually appears as a yellowing or browning of the card. Toning can be uniform or appear in patches. - Foxing
Foxing refers to small brown spots or marks on the card, caused by exposure to moisture or certain chemicals over time. It’s a common issue with older paper products. - Edge Wear
This describes damage along the edges of the postcard. You might see small tears, chipping, or general wear if the card hasn’t been properly stored. - Postmark Smudge
Postcards that were mailed may have a postmark on them, and sometimes the ink can smudge, making it unclear. This is a common issue but should be noted if it’s particularly bad. - Writing on Front
Some cards will have writing on the front, especially older, undivided back postcards. If the writing is light and unobtrusive, collectors may not mind. - Album Marks
These are impressions or marks left on a postcard from being stored in a photo album, often from corner mounts or adhesive. Some collectors see this as normal, but others may see it as damage. - Stains
Any discolouration that isn’t part of the toning process. Stains can result from water damage, oils, or other substances. They can range from small spots to large, unsightly patches. - Tape Residue
This refers to sticky marks left behind if tape was used to mount or repair the postcard. It can be difficult to remove and may cause further damage if not dealt with carefully. - Trimmed Edges
Some postcards have been trimmed down to fit frames or albums, which reduces their value. It’s important to check whether the postcard is the original size. - Pinholes
Sometimes postcards were pinned up on walls or boards, leaving small holes in the corners. While these are minor, they should still be noted as damage. - Light Creasing
Small, faint bends or folds that don’t break the card’s surface. These are less severe than full creases but still worth mentioning. - Surface Wear
This refers to the condition of the postcard’s image. Surface wear can include scratches, scuffs, or fading.
Postcard Grading Terms
Some sellers like to use grading systems to rate the condition of a postcard, usually using terms like:
- Mint (M): Perfect condition, as if just printed. Extremely rare for vintage postcards.
- Near Mint (NM): Almost perfect, with only the tiniest signs of wear.
- Excellent (EX): Very minor wear or damage.
- Very Good (VG): Some noticeable wear, but still in collectable condition.
- Good (G): More visible wear, possibly some damage, but still presentable.
- Fair (F): Significant wear or damage, possibly only suitable for reference or study purposes.
Accurate descriptions, a list of what to look for on postcards, and clear photographs are essential for attracting buyers and ensuring they know exactly what they’re getting. Being thorough in your listings will build trust and make it easier for collectors to find what they want.
