Once seen as a means of communication, postcards have evolved into valuable collectibles filled with nostalgia and sentimental charm. While their worth is determined by factors like historical significance, rarity, and unique features, some of these postcards have sold for shocking amounts at auctions.
From hand-painted postcards to those tied to historical events in sports or entertainment, here are some of the most expensive postcards ever sold, plus ones that are valued at insane amounts.
1. Penny Penates (1840)
This hand-painted postcard is considered the oldest known postcard in the world. It was sent by English writer Theodore Hook to himself — how charming! Featuring a caricature of postal clerks with giant pens standing around an even larger ink vat, it also bears a Penny Black stamp (the world’s first adhesive postage stamp). In 2002, it sold at the London Stamp Exchange auction for a staggering £31,758.75 (approximately $45,370).
2. Chinese Fruit Seller Postcard (Early 1900s)
This postcard, which depicts a “Chinaman selling fruits under the Tree” (yikes!), was sent from China via the Russian postal service between 1903 and 1915. Its historical relevance, as evidenced by the unique postal route it took, makes it valuable among collectors and history buffs. It sold for $4,800 at a previous auction; a version is also available on eBay for about $20.
3. Olympic Three Men of Carlisle Postcard (1908)
Valued at $1,500, this signed postcard captures three athletes from Carlisle who competed in the 1908 London Olympics. Its connection with early Olympic history, coupled with the rarity of sports memorabilia, have helped increase its value.
4. Unused Watercolor Postcard (1898)
In 2005, Jackson’s International auctioned this unused postcard (circa 1898) advertising Waverley Bicycles. Featuring artwork by Dutch designer Alphonse Mucha, the small card sold for $12,650 — setting a new record for a single unused postcard at the time. Its value stemmed from Mucha’s watercolor technique and design, coupled with the card’s pristine condition.
5. Cleveland Indians Postcard (1905)
This monochromatic signed postcard is a hidden gem among baseball enthusiasts and fans of the sport’s early days. It features 20 players from the Cleveland Indians baseball team — including early Hall of Famers Nap Lajoie and Addie Joss. Its rarity and association with some of the MLB’s most legendary players led to it selling for over $2,000 at a Leland’s auction.
6. Two Poppy Flowers Postcard (1910)
Designed by the German painter Karl Schmidt-Rottluff, this postcard sold for almost $14,000 at an auction in 2016. The poppies are drawn in crayon, and the reverse side features a note addressed to Dr. Elsa Hopf. Who knew a crayon drawing could be so valuable?
7. Young Boys Pump House Postcard (1908)
This historic postcard offers a heart-wrenching glimpse into early 20th-century labor practices. It depicts a group of boys working at a pump house alongside the Kern River oil fields, and its historical relevance contributed to its value over the years. Valued at £6,000 (about USD$7,650), you can also buy one online for around $600.
8. Launch of the R.M.S Titanic Postcard (1911)
Commemorating the launch of arguably the world’s most famous ocean liner, this postcard features a photograph of the R.M.S Titanic departing the Southampton Dock before its ill-fated maiden voyage. Its connection to the historic maritime tragedy has made it somewhat valuable among collectors, with one selling at auction for a little over $300.
9. Mahatma Gandhi Signed Postcard (1939)
Postcards of the spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi abound, but signed postcards are much harder to come by — which is probably why someone paid $8,000 for this item. Bet it comes with good karma!
10. Governmental Postcard (Late 1800s)
Issued by the U.S. government in 1873, these official “postal cards” were among the first of their kind and were issued to counteract private postcards, which were more expensive at the time. Thanks to their historical significance and rarity, their value has soared, with prices ranging from low hundreds to over $2,500.
11. Grand Rapids, Michigan Postcard (1930s)
Depicting the Memorial Towers and Fulton Street Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this vibrant postcard is another standout thanks to its historical and cultural relevance. Valued at $500, its prestige is also enhanced by the inclusion of a rare Benjamin Franklin one-cent stamp.
12. The Crystal Palace Postcard (1905)
Featuring the Crystal Palace in London, this original postcard is valued at $20,000. The postcard doubles as a cherished relic of the era, and symbolizes a period of innovation and progress during the Industrial Revolution in England. You can also buy a replica online for just $10.
13. Ellen Clapsaddle Signed Christmas Postcard (Early 1900s)
Illustrated by renowned postcard artist Ellen Clapsaddle, this Christmas-themed card stands out for its life-like artistic quality. It was also signed by the author herself. Signed postcards are considered especially rare, and collectors are willing to pay a premium to own these unique pieces of history. Valued at $1,400, you can also find unsigned ones for about $35.
What other valuable collectibles are out there?
If you’re in search of a new collecting hobby, there are plenty to choose from. Get some ideas with 10 Valuable Collectibles That Look Like Junk, along with 10 Art Deco Collectibles That Are Worth More Than You’d Expect and 13 All-American Collectibles That Bring Back Memories.
The post These 13 Postcards Are Worth Thousands of Dollars appeared first on Wealth Gang.
