Now highly collectible, Victorian trade cards were the earliest form of print advertising. They originated in England in the 1700's as black and white advertising but began being mass produced in color in the 1870's.
From 1876 until the early 1900's color trade cards usually had a picture on one side and the ad for the product or company on the other. They give us a glimpse of life, society and even the pop culture of their day.
Below is an example of a more generic trade card: a scented calendar card from Hoyt's German Cologne, this is more an advertisement for the company rather than a specific product.
Click on image to download
The other side of the card would have had a calendar on it.
Some trade cards are worth thousands of dollars. So keep your eyes open for them when you visit your local flea markets, antique shops and garage sales!
Enjoy!
