Early 20th Century Vintage Photograph collection

By kingtutgreen, 6 February, 2025
Description

Date unknown  Early 20th Century Vintage Photograph collection. This scrapbook page features eight vintage black-and-white photographs from the early 20th century, each capturing unique moments and scenes from the past:

1. A group of people sitting on a porch or veranda.
2. Two individuals standing in front of a large pyramid made of cannonballs.
3. Two people standing on steps in front of a building.
4. A duplicate photo of two people in front of the cannonball pyramid.
5. Two people sitting on a bench in a garden or park.
6. A building with a body of water in front, possibly a historical site or landmark.
7. Three people standing together, with one holding a hat.
8. Another photo of two people sitting on a bench in a garden or park.

Category
Militaria
Condition
Good
For Sale?
Yes
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

3 months 4 weeks ago

Your scrapbook page features a fascinating collection of early 20th-century photographs. Here's an appraisal based on the images and descriptions provided:

Description and Historical Context

The collection captures moments from the early 1900s, likely spanning various locations and themes. Each photograph offers a glimpse into life during that era, including fashion, architecture, social gatherings, and militaria. Highlights of the collection:

  1. Photographs of Cannonball Pyramids:
    • These images likely depict historical landmarks or military sites. Cannonball pyramids were often displayed near war memorials or forts to commemorate military history.
    • The photograph labeled "Johnston" may indicate a specific location or historical reference.
  2. Social and Family Scenes:
    • Several photos feature individuals in formal attire, typical of early 20th-century styles, sitting or standing in gardens, parks, or on porches. These images highlight the social customs and daily lives of the period.
  3. Riverfront and Architecture:
    • The waterfront scene with a building suggests a historical dock or port, possibly tied to trade or transport. Details like visible signs may help pinpoint the location with further research.

Condition

  • The photographs are in good condition for their age, with no significant tears or damage.
  • Some minor fading and wear are visible, which is expected for prints of this era.

Value

  1. Individual Photographs:
    • Photos of military-related scenes (e.g., cannonballs, historical sites) typically sell for $20–$50 each, depending on their historical significance and clarity.
    • Casual family or social scenes are valued at $10–$30 each, as they appeal to collectors of vintage ephemera.
  2. Complete Scrapbook Page:
    • As a curated page, the collection’s value increases due to its cohesiveness and historical interest. The entire page could fetch $100–$200 on platforms like eBay or through vintage photograph collectors.

Research Recommendations

  1. Identify Locations:
    • Use the visible "Johnston" text and waterfront building signs to investigate potential locations or historical significance.
    • Local historical societies or online forums specializing in military or vintage photography may provide further insights.
  2. Verify Militaria Context:
    • If the cannonball pyramid photos are tied to a notable event or location, their value may increase significantly.

Selling Advice

  • Photographic Collectors: List the collection online with detailed descriptions of each photo’s subject matter.
  • Local History Enthusiasts: Offer to museums or historical groups, particularly if the locations are identifiable and relevant to their archives.
  • Preserve and Digitize: To maximize appeal, consider scanning the photos and enhancing clarity digitally before selling or showcasing.

Estimated Value

  • Individual Photos: $10–$50 each
  • Complete Page: $100–$200
Average: 5 (1 vote)