Postcards were introduced in Europe as a cheap form of communication during the late 19th. century. The concept spread quickly to the rest of the world, including Australia. Two factors combined to cause the rapid spread of popularity - postage was generally half that of a letter and the postal system was very fast and reliable - up to four deliveries a day in England, so that mail could be posted and delivered on the same day.

The period 1900 - 1919 is commonly known as the Golden Age of Postcards and it is from this period that the great majority of cards came. After 1919 the increasing widespread availability of the telephone caused a rapid decline in the use of postcards other than to send holiday greetings.

About the end of 1979, a small group of enthusiasts comprising collectors and antique dealers banded together to share their hobby of postcard collecting. Early meetings were held above the art gallery of Josef Lebovic at 294 Oxford Street, Paddington. The number of enthusiasts grew and meetings moved to larger premises owned by the Philatelic Association of NSW at Philas House, Brisbane Street, Sydney.

The New South Wales Postcard Collectors Society was formed in 1980 ; it later became incorporated. The original committee was steered by President David Cook author of 'Picture Postcards of Australia 1898-1920'. Also on the first committee were Vice-President Barry Weston, Secretary Brendon Sforcina and Treasurer John Scanes.

The first Bulletin was published in August 1980. It was produced bi-monthly.

The NSW Postcard Collectors Society caters not only for postcard collectors but also for collectors of cigarette cards, trade cards, playing cards, etc.

Should you wish to persue your interest in cards you would be most welcome to attend one of our committee meetings. These are held on the first Wednesday of February, May, August and November at Philas House, 17 Brisbane Street, Sydney, commencing at 7:30pm.

Benefits of membership include receipt of a quarterly Bulletin with articles of interest to all members, entitlement to bid in our half yearly Postal Auctions. The fairs are held at Imar Community Hall, 2A Fitzroy Street, Croydon: view the dates here.