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If you want to sell postcards or paper items, you’ve come to the right place!
Postcard production flourished during the late 1800s and early 1900s, and today they are sold worldwide. People buy them as souvenirs or to stay in touch with loved ones while traveling. The hobby of studying and collecting postcards is known as “Deltiology”.
If you’ve got postcards stashed away, it’s time to dust them off and turn them into cash. Selling them can earn you some extra money.
You can sell old postcards in various places, both online and near you.
In this post, we’ll explore the most effective methods for selling your old postcards.
Where can I sell old postcards near me or online?
Discover the top websites and local spots to sell your old postcards, maximizing your earnings.
1. Cardcow.com
Cardcow.com is a leading online vintage postcard dealer, buying thousands of vintage cards annually. They buy all kinds of postcards.
They offer cash for your postcards or can sell them on their site or at auction for a consignment fee. Additionally, they provide a free basic appraisal of your collection.
2. Cherryland Postcard Auctions
Cherryland Postcard Auctions offers a platform for selling old postcards. With over 36 years of experience, they assist individuals in selling their collections.
When you fill out the form to sell, you have two options: consign your postcards for auction or sell them outright.
3. eBay
eBay offers more than just clothing and electronics; it’s also a fantastic platform for selling stamps, postcards, and related items.
Selling your old postcards on eBay can be advantageous as you can set your own prices, giving you greater control over your earnings.
On eBay, you can list up to 250 items for free. Beyond that, each additional listing incurs a fee of $0.35. When your item sells, eBay charges approximately 10% to 15% of its final value.
Before listing, check out what price similar postcards are selling for on eBay. Overall, eBay remains a great option for selling.
4. Local auction houses
If you have old postcards, consider reaching out to a local auction house.
A local auction house might be interested in auctioning off your postcard collection. Remember, auction houses usually take a cut of the profits, so factor that in when selling.
Search online for auction houses near you.
5. Local antique stores
If you have vintage postcards, consider local antique stores as a potential selling option. They might agree to sell your postcards and share profits with you.
Simply search for “antique store near me” or “antique store [your city/zip code]” on Google to find nearby options. Call ahead to confirm if they buy old postcards.
6. Etsy
Etsy isn’t just for crafts and handmade items; it’s also a platform for selling antiques and vintage items. You can sell your old postcards there.
Listing an item on Etsy costs $0.20. When your item sells, you’ll charged a 5% transaction fee and a 3% plus $0.25 payment processing fee.
Etsy is a popular platform where you can showcase your cards to a wide audience of potential buyers. You can set your own prices, giving you more control over your earnings.
Simple steps to sell old postcards for maximum returns
1. Store your postcards properly
To keep your postcards safe and in good condition, use plastic sleeves or a dedicated album like the one shown below. Avoid using rubber bands, paper clips, string, or anything else that could damage them and decrease their value.
2. Research the value of your cards
To effectively market your investment, it’s essential to grasp its true value. Begin by determining a ballpark figure for similar postcards.
eBay’s actual selling prices, not just listings or bids, can be a valuable reference. If eBay isn’t helpful, try your local library.
To determine the worth of a postcard or collection, consider factors like age, condition, rarity, and subject matter.
The bottom line
If you’re looking to get rid of some old postcards lying around your house, you might want to consider selling them. While it may not be a way to make a fortune, it can certainly bring in a little extra cash for something that’s essentially just collecting dust. After all, who couldn’t use a bit of extra money, no matter how small the amount?
Selling your old postcards can be a great way to declutter your home and make some money at the same time. If you’re not sure where to start, there are a few options you can try.
You could sell them online through marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, or Amazon. Alternatively, you could try selling them at a local antique shop or flea market. Whatever option you choose, it’s worth giving it a try and seeing if you can make some money from your old postcards.