Discovering old German postcards in your attic or at a flea market can be an exciting find, but you might be wondering: are they actually worth anything? The value of vintage postcards lies in their historical significance, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. Let's delve into the world of old German postcards to help you understand their worth.
Postcards have been a form of communication and expression since the 19th century. In Germany, they gained popularity in the late 1800s, with the advent of steam-powered post by the German Reichspost. This turned postcards into an accessible and affordable way to exchange messages, leading to a boom in their production and usage.
prédécessors: The Early Days of German Postcards
The first German postcards were private, handmade creations, often featuring personal messages and drawings. They are highly sought after today due to their rarity and unique insights into the daily life of the time. These precursors to ours modern-day postcards are often referred to as "Semicards" or "Semi-postcards."
A prime example is the so-called "Letter Card" (Briefkarte), introduced in 1870. Although not officially recognized as postcards, they laid the foundation for the later official postcards. Collectors today highly value these early German postcards, with certain specimens fetching thousands of dollars.
The Golden Age of German Postcards
The era between 1890 and 1918 saw an explosion of German postcard production, popularity, and design. These cards depict a wide range of themes, from landscapes and cityscapes to historical events and advertisements. This period is often referred to as the "Golden Age" of German postcards.
During this time, German publishers dominated the postcard market, with companies like Verlag von Ludolph Ottensohn in Leipzig and O.W. Barth in juventut in being among the most renowned. Cards from this period can range in value from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on their condition, rarity, and desirability.
Art Nouveau & Realistic Designs
The late 1800s and early 1900s saw a surge in Art Nouveau style postcards, featuring sinuous lines and natural forms. These postcards, often decorated with flowing, intricate patterns, are highly sought after by collectors today. Additionally, realistic designs, particularly photographs, became more prevalent, offering an authentic glimpse into late 19th and early 20th-century German life.
Both Art Nouveau and realistic designs can command high prices, depending on their age, condition, and scarcity. A well-preserved, high-quality example from this era can sell for hundreds, or even thousands, of dollars.
The Inflation Period & Weimar Republic (1918-1933)
Post World War I, Germany experienced a period of political instability and economic turmoil, reflected by the postcards of this era. Postcard production shifted towards satire and political commentary, reflecting the unrest of the time. Greetings from the Front (Frontkarte) during World War I were also popular and can be quite valuable today.
Rarity, condition, and relevance to historical events significantly impact the value of postcards from this period. Those depicting significant historical events or figures can command higher prices, sometimes reaching into the thousands.
Swift and Schmeiz series
Two distinctive series of German postcards from this period are the Swift and Schmeiz series. The Swift series, produced in the 1920s, featured prominent German citizens, cultural figures, and historical events. Meanwhile, the Schmeiz series, produced during the Weimar Republic period (1918-1933), is known for its sinister propaganda and satirical content.
Postcards from these series can vary in value, with those in excellent condition and depicting sought-after topics commanding the highest prices. Swift-series cards featuring famous figures, for instance, can sell for hundreds of dollars.
In conclusion, the value of old German postcards lies in their historical significance, rarity, and aesthetic appeal. By understanding the period, condition, and relevance of these postcards, you can make an informed decision about their worth. As with any collectible, thorough research is key, and the market is always changing. So, happy hunting, and who knows, you might discover you have a rare and valuable piece of history in your collection!