The World's First Postcard

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The World's First Postcard

The idea of a postal card which could be used at half the letter rate was that of Heinrich von Stephan in 1865. Later that year, Dr Emanuel Hermann amplified the idea and the Austrian postal authorities issued the first cards on 1 October 1869. The card has a printed yellow 2 Kreuzer Head of the Emperor stamp on one side and the other is labelled as the space for written communication. Date: 1 October 1869

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Media ID 32236618

© Holts Battlefield Collection / Mary Evans

1865 1869 Austrian Authorities Communication Emanuel Half Heinrich Hermann Idea Issued Labelled Letter Postal Publisher Rate Space Stamp Stephan Worlds Written Amplified Year

EDITORS COMMENTS
Step back in time with this incredible print of The World's First Postcard, dating all the way back to October 1, 1869. This revolutionary idea of a postal card at half the letter rate was first conceived by Heinrich von Stephan in 1865 and later expanded upon by Dr. Emanuel Hermann. The Austrian postal authorities were quick to implement this innovative concept, issuing the very first cards on that historic day in October. The postcard itself features a striking yellow 2 Kreuzer Head of the Emperor stamp on one side, while leaving ample space for written communication on the other. It's amazing to think about how such a simple yet groundbreaking idea paved the way for modern-day communication. As you gaze upon this piece from Holt's Battlefields Collection, you can't help but marvel at the historical significance it holds. This print captures a moment in time when sending messages across great distances became more accessible and affordable than ever before. Transport yourself back to 1869 and imagine what it must have been like to receive one of these pioneering postcards in your mailbox. Truly a remarkable piece of history captured through the lens of Mary Evans Prints Online.

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