Postcard Grading

Condition matters when buying or collecting vintage postcards. This simple grading guide helps you understand the quality of a postcard, from mint condition to well-loved pieces with signs of wear. However, this is only a guide; always study the photos carefully to see the details before deciding.

💚 Mint (M) – Perfect, like new, no flaws.

💚 Near Mint (NM) – Like Mint but with slight ageing or discolouration from storage. Otherwise clean and sharp.

💛 Excellent (EX) – No major flaws. Square corners, no creases, pinholes, or bends. 

💛 Very Good (VG) – Slightly rounded corners, tiny creases, or minor age marks.

🧡 Good (G) – Noticeable corner wear, bends, or small creases. May have postmarks, writing, or album marks.

❤️ Fair (F) – Heavy wear, strong creases, stains, small tears. Heavily postmarked or written on, with rounded corners or edge damage. Still intact.

💔 Poor (P) – Major damage, missing parts, or heavy wear. Suitable as a space-filler.