World War I German Steamer Ship Vintage Postcard – Trash or Treasure?
What’s it worth? Do you love it or want to toss it? Recycle it? Sell it? Get it appraised? Hang it in your gallery?
I recently found what looks like a post card in the junk store which I purchased for 50 cents. It is a hand colored watercolor (unsigned) of a black and red steamer ship. The mast lines of the ship and some other details are finely done. There are lots of white clouds in the background. I saw something like it on one of the antique road show television programs. Beneath the steamer ship are the words typed in red ink,” German steamer went ashore on Cape Cod, during World War. Water-colored sketch done by hand.” It’s done on off white thick paper and I assume they are talking about World War I.
We have a fun program in town where you can bring an item and local appraisers will give you an estimate on its value. I learned that . . .
- Most china dishware is not hot. No one wants grandma’s dishes even if it is an expensive set.
- Be careful of any “antique” jewelry you buy overseas in flea markets. You can pay a lot of money for costume junk jewelry.
- Some things that are passed down in families are just junk, no real dollar value. Note: It is only a beat-up old coffee urn nothing more.
I decided to bring in my vintage World War German Steamer Ship post card in for an appraisal. The appraiser briefly looked at it and told me it was worthless.
I don’t believe that, so Farmhouse Magic Blog readers give me your opinion. If you know anything about vintage post cards, WW I history, or Cape Cod history please let me know.
I would love to learn the history and true value of my old postcard.