Christmas Cards & Post Cards
The recognized "Golden Age" of postcards in America was from around the turn of the 20th
century until World War I, although they have been printed since 1870. Postcards were sent
for many holidays and occasions - Christmas, birthdays, St. Patrick's Day, Halloween, etc. - and used
to connect with friends and relatives near and far in the pre-telephone days. Many of the most
beautiful postcards were printed in Germany and World War I interrupted the flow of cards to the US.
Many people's interest in collecting postcards was sparked from finding postcard albums from their parents or grandparents.
Christmas postcards are among the most beautiful, and common illustrations were of children, Santa Claus,
animals, trees and gifts. Some postcards contained photographs as opposed to illustrations.
Postcards are among the least expensive categories of Christmas collectibles, with good quality examples
available for under $10.00. Many postcards were produced as series and collectors enjoy pursuing all cards
of the same series. Cards signed by specific artists command higher prices.
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