Postcards, those miniature windows into the world, have been popular collectibles for over a century. They're unique, engaging, and often packed with history and culture. If you've accumulated a collection, you might be wondering, "What do I do with a postcard collection?" This guide offers ways to preserve, display, and even monetize your postcard collection.
As a collector, you've likely spent time and resources amassing your postcards. These items are not just pieces of paper but stories, artwork, and bits of history. So, what are the best ways to manage, enjoy, and even share your collection?
Preserving Your Postcard Collection
First, it's crucial to protect your postcards from damage. This involves creating a safe and controlled environment, ideal for long-term storage.
Use archival quality materials for handling and storing your postcards. Acid-free albums, binders, and envelopes will prevent your collection from yellowing and becoming brittle. Avoid taping or gluing your postcards, as adhesives can cause damage over time. Instead, consider using corner mounts or a card protector.
Controlling Humidity and Temperature
Postcards, especially vintage ones, can be affected by humidity and temperature changes. Ideal storage conditions are around 65°F (18°C) and 50% relative humidity. Avoid storing your postcards in attics, basements, or areas prone to temperature fluctuations.
Consider using a dehumidifier or desiccant packs to maintain optimal humidity levels. Monitor the environment regularly to ensure it remains consistent and safe for your collection.
Shelter from Light and pests
UV light can cause fading and discoloration. Store your postcards away from direct sunlight and use UV-filtering glass or plastic for displays. Moreover, pests like silverfish and rodents can damage your collection. Regularly inspect your storage area for signs of infestation and use pest control methods if needed.
Displaying Your Postcard Collection
Once preserved, you can enjoy and showcase your collection through various display methods. Displaying your postcards allows you to appreciate and share them with others.
Create a postcard album: An album organized by themes, such as places, artists, or historical periods. Use acid-free pages and consider adding information about each postcard to enhance the viewing experience.
Creating a Wall Display
For a bold statement, create a wall display using a grid or collage arrangement. Use a material like foam board or foam core to mount your postcards, ensuring they're secure and won't damage the wall. Arrange them by theme, color, or size for a harmonious display.
If you want a more modular and adjustable display, use a postcard rack system. These systems allow you to insert and remove postcards easily, making it simple to change your display or swap cards periodically.
Digitizing Your Collection
In an era dominated by digital technology, consider scanning your postcards or taking high-resolution images. This process preserves your collection by reducing handling and allows you to share with a wider audience online.
Platforms like Flickr, Instagram, or personal blog/webpages can be used to showcase your collection. Moreover, digital records can serve as a backup in case of physical damage, loss, or theft.
Exploring Your Collection's Value
Postcards have monetary value, and some collectors may wish to explore the market potential of their collection. Before selling or trading, it's essential to understand their worth.
Research postcard values using books, auction sites, or specialized postcard databases. Factors determining a postcard's value include age, condition, rarity, artist, and subject matter. Direct comparison with sold and unsold items on auction sites can provide a rough estimate.
Selling or Trading Your Postcards
Several avenues exist for selling or trading postcards. Online marketplaces like eBay, Etsy, or specialized forums cater to postcard enthusiasts. Consider consigning your collection to a professional auction house if the value is significant.
Before selling, ensure you're not disposing of any irreplaceable or historically significant pieces. Some postcards might have more sentimental, artistic, or cultural value than financial, making them precious and worth keeping.
Engaging with the Postcard Community
Postcard enthusiasts form a vibrant global community. Engaging with this community can enhance your collecting experience and provide opportunities for learning and collaboration.
Join postcard clubs, associations, or online forums dedicated to postcard collecting. These platforms offer resources, tips, and friendship from fellow collectors. Participate in events like postcard swaps (a collecting and trading event) or exhibitions to showcase your collection and expand your network.
Lastly, consider sharing your collection with local schools, libraries, or community groups for educational purposes. This act not only preserves history but fosters a love for collecting among future generations. As you delve deeper into the world of postcards, remember that each piece tells a story and offers a window into the past. Handle them with care, appreciate their beauty, and share the joy with others. Happy collecting!