A clearly defined condition grading system for antique postcards, vintage postcards, and Victorian trade cards is needed, especially on the internet, so no misunderstandings between customer and dealer occur.  We at Remember When Vintage Postcards use the following as a guide when grading and pricing the antique postcards, vintage postcards, and Victorian trade cards we list:

 

Mint (M):  A perfect postcard or trade card, just like it was when first printed.  No creases or bends, writing (front or back), postmark, nor marks of any kind.  It is a clean postcard or trade card that's seldom seen.

 

Excellent (E):  Similar to mint in appearance, with only minor corner bumps (wear).  No bends, creases, or soil.  The postcard may either be postmarked/stamped, or unused.  May have writing on address side only (no writing either side for trade cards).  It is a clean, fresh postcard or trade card (especially on the image side for postcards).

 

Very Good (VG):  Corners may be slightly bumped (worn) or rounded.  May have an almost undetectable (very light, very small, and/or very short) crease or bend that doesn't detract from the overall appearance of the image side.  No soiling, or tears.  May have writing, or show postal use on address side only for postcards.

 

Good (G):  Corners are more bumped/rounded than very good, with noticeable bends and/or creases.  May have a small amount of light soiling (this includes stains and foxing) that doesn't detract from the overall appearance of the image side.  May have a little bit of writing in small letters at edges on the front side of the postcard, that doesn't detract from main image (many times, however, writing on the front will detract from main image).  May have a small tear, no larger than 3/8 inch.

 

Fair (F):  The postcard or trade card is intact (no corner chips).  Excess (significant) soil, stains, creases, writing, or postmark may affect picture.  It could be a scarce card that is difficult to find in any condition.

 

Poor (P):  Incomplete card.  Image seriously affected.  A filler postcard or trade card only (until a better postcard or trade card comes along)!

 

We recognize that everyone will have his or her own opinion as to what each condition grade should be defined as.  The above is only a guide and not meant to be definitive.