If you’re thinking about selling vintage postcards but aren’t sure where to start, this guide will help you understand what to look for and how to begin.

Vintage postcards are small pieces of history, but they can also be a simple way to start selling collectables online. They are inexpensive to source, easy to store, and affordable to post, making them a practical option if you want to begin without a large upfront cost.

This guide explains, in a clear and straightforward way, how to recognise different postcard eras, understand commonly used terminology, and identify the types of postcards collectors actively look for. It also covers what can affect value, how to research prices, and how to present postcards clearly when listing them online.

The aim is to help you avoid common mistakes and feel more confident when starting out.

Inside this guide, you’ll learn:

• How to recognise the main postcard eras
• The different types of postcards, including real photo, linen, embossed and anthropomorphic cards
• Common postcard terminology used by collectors
• What can make a postcard more valuable
• A simple condition grading guide
• Well-known postcard publishers
• Why scanning postcards can be quicker and clearer than photographing them
• Practical tips for researching prices and writing clear listings

Whether you’ve inherited a collection, enjoy picking up postcards at charity shops or car boot sales, or simply want to try selling vintage items online, this guide gives you a clear starting point.

This guide is designed to give you a simple, low-cost way to get started, based on real experience selling vintage postcards online.

Written by Sue Foster, who sells vintage postcards and shares practical tips on online selling and working from home.

Format: PDF download