Discovering old German postcards in your attic or at an estate sale can be an exciting find. But what are they worth? One thing is clear: they're not just old pieces of paper. They're relics of a bygone era, bearing a unique perspective on German history and culture. So, how can you value them, and what makes one postcard worth more than another?
Before we delve into the factors affecting an old German postcard's value, let's first understand the history behind these artifacts. The golden age of postcards in Germany was roughly between 1890 and 1918, with a notable resurgence in the 1930s. During this time, postcards were not just a means of communication but art, propaganda, and souvenirs all rolled into one.
Factors Determining the Value of Old German Postcards
The value of old German postcards can vary greatly, influenced by various factors. Understanding these can help you determine the worth of your collection or that collectible piece you've just discovered.
Factors can be broadly categorized into two: intrinsic and extrinsic.
Intrinsic Factors
These factors relate to the postcard itself and its physical attributes.
- Age: As a general rule, older postcards are more valuable. Pre-1900s postcards, for instance, are often rarer and thus more valuable.
- Condition: The physical condition of the postcard is crucial. Cards in mint condition with no creases, tears, or stains will command a higher price.
- Size: Larger postcards, especially those of the P stomp period (around 1906-1909), are often more valuable due to their collector's interest and the significant printing costs at the time.
Extrinsic Factors
These factors relate to the postcard's context and history.
- Theme: Postcards depicting historical, cultural, or significant events or subjects are often more valuable. Popular themes include scenic views, people in traditional dress, and cultural events.
- Usability: Whether the postcard was actually used (has a stamp, cancellation mark, post office notation) can affect its value, often lowering it. However, used cards can sometimes be preferred by historians for their historical context.
Identifying and Dating Your Postcards
Before you can determine a postcard's value, you need to know some basics about it, starting with its date.
Postcards in Germany evolved through different periods, characterized by specific postage stamp structures and card designs:
Pfemig Postcards (1872-1885)
These are the first German postcards and are quite rare. They have square stamps on the left, with the address on the reverse. They're also known as C-type cards.
Lienz zaversichte Postcards (1885-1895)
These cards have a rectangular stamp on the left, with the address on the reverse. They're often referred to as D-type or L-type cards.
Postal Stationery Era (1895-1900)
During this period, postcards were imprinted with 'Postkarte' (postcard) on the front, along with postal charges. The address went on the reverse.
Private Printing Age (1900-1918)
These postcards are typically larger and more colorful, with no postal indication on the front. Instead, the address went on the back, next to a line for the stamp.
Once you've analyzed your postcards against these periods, you can start determining their value, using the factors discussed earlier. While there's no definitive way to estimate how much a postcard is worth, collectors often use price guides and auction records for reference.
In the end, the value of old German postcards isn't just monetary. They're pieces of history, offering a window into Germany's past. Whether you're an avid collector or a history enthusiast, every postcard is a treasure waiting to be discovered.