Postcard

Burns on Ayr Postcard 1899

People boarding a train at the Shawnee depot, circa late 1800s - DPLA - e0b201c59bea89f203494f37fe0ee671

Lipmancard

Feldpost-Correspondenzkarte

Conlie postcard

Austrian Postcard 1901

Postcards are rectangular pieces of thick paper or thin cardboard intended for writing and mailing without an envelope. Invented in the 19th century, they have been widely used as a means for brief communication, as well as a collection item, a hobby known as deltiology. Postcards feature various designs, ranging from photographic images, artwork, and are often used by businesses for advertising. Over time, the postcard has evolved into digital forms, but traditional paper postcards remain popular among collectors and travelers.

History

The concept of the postcard was first patented in the United States by John P. Charlton in 1861, who sold the rights to Hymen Lipman. The earliest postcards were known as Lipman's postal card. These cards were pre-stamped and featured a decorative border. However, it was in Austria in 1869 that the first known picture postcard was sent. The idea quickly spread across Europe and to the United States, where the first government-produced postcard was issued in 1873.

Types of Postcards

Postcards can be broadly categorized into two types: picture postcards and postal cards. Postal cards are issued by the postal service with pre-printed stamps, while picture postcards are the more familiar type, featuring images on one side.

Picture Postcards

Picture postcards have a wide range of themes, including landmarks, tourist attractions, artwork, and humorous subjects. They are divided into two main eras:

• Pre-linen (pre-1930), which were typically printed on card stock with a high rag content, and
• Linen postcards (1930s-1945), known for their textured surface that resembled linen fabric.

Following the linen era, postcards began to be produced on smoother, chrome paper, leading to the modern photochrome or "chrome" postcards that dominate today's market.

Collecting

Deltiology, or the collection and study of postcards, is considered one of the largest collectible hobbies. Collectors may focus on specific themes, such as historical landmarks, flora and fauna, or artists. The condition of the postcard, rarity, and subject matter can significantly affect its value.

Usage

Postcards are used for a variety of purposes, including personal communication, souvenirs, and advertising. They serve as an affordable and effective way for businesses to reach potential customers. In the digital age, physical postcards have also found a new role through services that allow users to send personalized postcards using digital photos, which are then printed and mailed.

Cultural Impact

Postcards have had a significant cultural impact, serving as historical documents that offer insights into social, cultural, and technological changes. They have been used as a medium for art, propaganda, and social commentary. The golden age of postcards, from the early 1900s to the 1910s, coincided with significant world events such as the World's Fairs and the First World War, making them valuable historical artifacts.

See Also

• Mail
• Philately
• Postal system
• Tourism

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