Collecting Vintage Christmas Postcards
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re all on the lookout for new pieces to add to our holiday décor. While you browse in person and online shops, make sure to check out vintage Christmas postcards. These simple, small cards are an easy way to add a vintage feel to your holiday décor this year.
History of Vintage Christmas Postcards
Postcards first made their arrival in 1861, early in America’s Civil War. The government began producing “Postal Cards” for half the cost of privately-printed cards.
But it wasn’t until 1893 at the World Columbian Exposition in Chicago that Americans began to collect them as souvenirs. Over the years, postcards evolved into what they are today, always bearing the same picture-focused layout. The years 1907-1915 are considered the “Golden Age” of the postcard, as this was the time in which they were most popular.
A fun fact? German printers dominated much of the early market of postcards until a tariff was passed that reduced their importation.
While reproduction prints are easy to find online, it’s fun to get postmarked pieces for extra charm and character. For homeowner Sharon Brandt, vintage Christmas postcards are the perfect addition to any space during November and December. “I was so captivated by the dates, and the messages these sweet people sent to their families all across the country,” she says.
Where to Find Vintage Christmas Postcards
A quick online search will lead you to small lots of vintage Christmas postcards on eBay or Etsy, but the most exciting way to find them is in your local antiques stores and flea markets. Keep an eye out, as these are easily tucked away. If you don’t mind reproductions or simple retro-looking cards to frame or hang, Etsy and other sources have plenty of options.
What to Spend
Sharon has found most of her postcards for just $1 at antiques stores. You can also buy lots that contain ten or more vintage Christmas postcards online for around $5. Keep in mind that there are many “vintage” postcards that are actually reprints, not real antiques. Some rare antique postcards can cost upwards of $20, depending on the print and age. Used postcards usually are priced lower, but have the added bonus of an interesting story behind them—quite literally!
How to Style Vintage Christmas Postcards
Sharon likes to nestle her vintage postcards in the branches of her Christmas tree. You can also make ornaments out of them by poking a hole in the top and tying ribbon or twine through for hanging. String several together for a vintage postcard garland to hang on your mantel, or frame and hang them gallery style on a wall near your tree, or even use blank ones to write Christmas messages for loved ones and attach to presents under the tree.
Love vintage Christmas decor? Check out this charming DIY! Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to get your daily dose of farmhouse inspiration!
