How to Collect Vintage Political Cartoons

Political cartoons have been a prominent part of the American media since the beginning of the nation. Vintage cartoons from the nineteenth and early twentieth century are particularly interesting, because they show that personal attacks on politicians were as important then as they are now. If you want to collect vintage political cartoons, there are several things you can do to create a comprehensive collection.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Mylar bags
• Cotton gloves
• Magnifying glass

Build a Vintage Political Cartoon Collection

1. Keep an eye out for estate sales held for deceased political cartoonists and politicians. These sales typically feature first edition prints and rarities unavailable in regular auctions. Seek out an estate sale with a good selection that uses some of the proceeds for charity.
2. Seek retiring college professors who have an interest and specialty in political cartoons. You can review university websites for details on upcoming retirements and find contact information. Many professors try to sell cartoons, books and other items to lighten their loads when they leave the university.
3. Search online auction websites to locate collections of political cartoons on sale. These websites offer the broadest range of vintage cartoons on the market. As a new collector, make sure you request appraisal forms or authenticating documents from online sellers.
4. Sift through boxes of political magazines and newspapers at rummage sales. This type of search may not yield a high number of cartoons but you can usually find interesting cartoons that may grow in value at a low sticker price.
5. Store each of your political cartoons in separate mylar bags as they begin to collect in your home. Mylar bags are commonly used on vintage comic books to protect delicate paper from dust and debris. This storage method is absolutely necessary for cartoons prior to World War II because of the low paper weight used.
6. Utilize cotton gloves to handle political cartoons. As you collect a variety of items older than 50 years old, you will notice that the paper edges fray easily. Grab cartoons by the top edge between your index finger and thumb to avoid excessive tension on the corners.
7. Work with professional appraisal services that specialize in art and cartoons. You can contact specialty firms like Comic Art Appraisal to help you determine the value and quality of your vintage political cartoon collection (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Scan every vintage political cartoon you find for an artist's signature and date. Every cartoonist leaves their personal mark on their art ranging from simple initials to a small drawing incorporating their name. Pay particular attention to signatures on cartoons during the nineteenth and early twentieth century.