Did you know the first Christmas card was invented here in Blighty by Sir Henry Cole? Back in 1843 (three years after the ‘penny post’ was created) he joined forces with his artist friend John Horsley to create a three panelled Christmas card featuring a variety of festive scenes. Only 1000 of these cards were printed and sold for 1 shilling a piece – they are now hugely collectable and very rare!
It wasn’t until 1875 when Christmas cards became more affordable thanks to printer Louis Prang that sending cards to your loved ones started to become a tradition adopted by all.
In honour of the festive season we’ve gathered together some examples of Christmas cards from our favourite 7 decades…which one tickles your fancy??
From the 1920s:
From the 1930s:
From the 1940s:
From the 1950s:
From the 1960s:
From the 1970s:
From the 1980s:
Let us know which is your favourite by tweeting us @judyvintagefair, snapping pictures of your own vintage christmas cards and tagging our Instagram page @judysvintagefair or commenting below!
We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all our wonderful, loyal customers and traders for an incredible 2013, we’ve had some incredible events and met some amazing people!
Have a wonderful christmas and a fabulous new year!!
Jolly Retro Regards,
Judy HQ
xxx