There are few collectors who don't get caught up in the excitement and anticipation of attending auctions, and postcard fanatics are no exception. With hundreds or even thousands of postcards available all in one place, collectors can add rare and vintage finds to their collections with relative ease and--hopefully--at a reasonable price. Once you attend your first postcard auction, you may be hooked.
Find out when the top houses are auctioning off vintage postcards. Large auctioneers have specific dates and times that they present postcards and other similar collections during the year. Most have websites with updated information on the various collections.
Pre-register for the auction once you have decided to attend. Most auction houses require specific documentation, including bank references, before you will be allowed to bid on merchandise. This information is usually requested at least 48 hours prior to the auction. You will also need to provide positive identification before you will be issued a bidding paddle that corresponds with the pre-registration information you provided.
Know what postcards you intend to bid on when you attend auctions. You'll want to secure a copy of the individual catalogues of the auction houses or view the collections on the Internet before arriving at the live auction. Most of the larger auction houses also offer a pre-auction viewing, where you will be able to take a closer look at the postcards without the pressure of having to make a bid.
Learn the auction protocol before the bidding starts. Most auction houses will present you with a numbered paddle after you have signed in, which you will use to inform the auctioneer of your bid.
Remember that your bid is usually not the full amount of payment due. Buyers must also pay applicable sales taxes and any shipping costs if such service is provided.
Make and stick to a budget. Once you have determined the amount of money that you are able to spend, do not go over that amount. Auctions are a bit like gambling, and some people get foolishly caught up in the frenzy and excitement.
Happy Postcard Collecting
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