Tips on the Care and Preservation of Vintage Postcards

The care and preservation of antique or vintage post cards can be challenging, however, the reward for doing so correctly is aesthetically pleasing and financially rewarding. Not to mention the contribution on a societal level whereby nostalgic memories and historical facts are preserved for posterity.

Antique postcards may be especially brittle, worn thin from viewing or carelessness, and the once bright, vibrant colors are faded. It is especially important to arrest any further deterioration Ideally the postcard is in fine to pristine condition after years of careful handling and all that will be required is their gentle transfer to archival quality materials.

A small financial investment is required when upgrading to archival quality storage or display materials. A combination of top quality materials will protect postcards from natural hazards of sunlight, water and/or humidity, mold, fire, dust and dirt. Natural skin oils from fingers can also add to general deterioration.

Storage albums and boxes with non-PVC(poly vinyl chloride) plastic and a pH level of 7.0 or higher will prohibit further card deterioration or damage. Most types of manufactured paper do contain chemicals that raise the pH level and acid content resulting in faded, discolored, and increasingly more brittle postcards.

Maintaining a humidity level of between 50 to 65% is imperative and should be a factor in considering whether or not to begin a vintage or antique postcard collection. A too cold temperature will contribute to brittleness and a too hot temperature will cause further general deterioration and invite the growth of microorganisms.

Keep framed collections tastefully displayed in the interior space of a home or studio, away from direct sunlight. Professional framing with a firm request for museum quality mounting is recommended. Before leaving your collection with the framer make certain that they have experience in handling techniques and that any application with the postcards is easily reversible, i.e. securing corners using only stamp hinges, paper tape, etc.

Extreme care and patience is required when removing postcards from their original old albums. You may find they are mounted on green or black construction paper which may leave some residue or be stubbornly attached to many of the cards. Using a blow dryer on low heat is an option when faced with this particular circumstance.

A postcard collection, vintage, antique, or otherwise can become a major investment especially when you are targeting a specific genre. As soon as possible, protect the collection in a fireproof box, cabinet, or vault. A safety deposit box should be considered depending on the appraised and/or insured value of the postcard collection.