Postcards have evolved throughout their history from simple black and white to full color pictures. There are many people who delight in collecting postcards from history. Knowing more about the history of postcards and the types of postcards will help collectors to understand what is available out there for them to add to their collection.

The history of postcards starts before 1898. In these early days of postcard history in the United States only the post office could produce and sell postcards. They had one side devoted to the address and the other side was blank. After 1898, however, the laws changed and private manufacturers entered the industry. The regulations still kept creativity limited. These new non-post office cards had one side for the address and the other side was the message area where a small picture was also allowed. Finally the postcard become what we know today - a picture on one side and the message area and address area on the other.

The types of postcards throughout history were highly dependent upon government regulations and other outside influences. A white border card is a card that has a white border around its edges. These cards were made to conserve ink. Linen cards spent some time being popular. They have a textured feel to them and are made of fiber board. Chrome postcards had pictures that looked like real color photos. Real photo card had actual black and white photos on them. These are only a sampling of the many different postcards on the market or in circulation.

Postcards have come from simply being a way to deliver a message to true works of art. As collectors try to expand their collection, older versions will become more scare. If you find a historic postcard you should hold onto it. These inexpensive cards can grow into a great investment.