Old Magazines

See all Old Magazines items on halfvalue

Magazines have been around for centuries, with popular collectors items being pamphlets and leaflets from the Revolutionary War in America. Old magazines from the 1900s, especially those with famous covers, are also highly coveted by collectors and non-collectors alike. Back issues of those old Cosmopolitan or Saturday Evening Post magazines can earn collectors quite a bit of money.

The famous American artist Norman Rockwell brought fame and glory to the Post as the publication featured hundreds of his wildly popular scenes of Americana on the cover. His work spanned nearly 50 years, from 1916 to 1963. Today, these original issues, with Norman Rockwell covers in excellent condition, can fetch a few hundred dollars.

Old magazines set trends in fashion and photography. The birth of the "Supermodel" came with the covers of the 1960s and 1970s fashion magazines in America and Europe. Models like Twiggy and Grace Jones made the obscure beautiful and highly enviable. National Geographic magazine captured (and still captures) breathtaking images on its covers and old issues can warrant a decent sum at auction.

Magazine Care
Proper care of your old magazines requires a lot of attention to detail, as the paper used is heavily saturated with ink in most cases and lighter weight that is often unsuitable for long shelf life. Because the condition of your old MAD Magazine or Harper's Bazaar means all the difference in the appraisal process, it is vital to protect your investment. This can be done through dust covers, restoration, and limiting light exposure. Flat storage and interleaving with acid-free paper is also recommended.