Whispers of Yesterday: Why Your Christchurch Postcard is a Time Capsule Worth Keeping

 There is something undeniably magical about holding a physical piece of the past. In an age dominated by fleeting digital notifications and instant messaging, the humble picture postcard remains a poignant artifact—a tangible bridge to another time, another place, and another person’s lived experience.

Recently, while looking through my collection, I came across a beautifully preserved postcard of "Historic Christchurch." It wasn’t just the picturesque scenes on the front that caught my eye, but the intimate, handwritten story on the back. It serves as a perfect example of why postcard collecting—or deltiology—is more than just a hobby; it is a vital practice of preserving social history.

The Art of the Postcard: A Miniature Masterpiece

Postcards like the one featured here, published by the esteemed J. Salmon Ltd, are quintessential examples of mid-to-late 20th-century British tourism. Based in Sevenoaks, Kent, J. Salmon was a titan in the industry, renowned for capturing the "British holiday" aesthetic. Their cards didn’t just show you a place; they framed it through a lens of nostalgia, warmth, and tranquillity.

The "Historic Christchurch" card uses a classic multi-view layout, a popular format that offered the buyer maximum value. It presents a curated "greatest hits" of the town:

• The Priory Church: A magnificent display of local heritage.

• Charming Street Scenes: Including "The Copper Shillet," invoking the cozey atmosphere of a traditional English pub.

• The Harbour: Capturing the idyllic, slow-paced rhythm of maritime life.

• Historical Ruins: Adding a layer of gravitas and antiquity to the seaside charm.

For a collector, this specific card is a treasure trove. It isn’t merely a photograph; it is an editorial decision made decades ago about how Christchurch wanted to be remembered.

The Human Element: Decoding the Message

The true soul of any postcard lies on the reverse side. The card in question reveals a snapshot of a 1980s or 90s summer getaway:

"We had a pleasant journey down despite the heat, through the Vale of the White Horse & over Salisbury Plain. Brenda loved all the little thatched villages. We spent yesterday in Christchurch which is a real gem of a place. A swim & paddle this morning then to Ocean World which was fascinating. Going to Poole Harbour by boat tomorrow..."

This short note is packed with historical data. It documents travel routes (the journey through the Vale of the White Horse), the activities of a typical family holiday (a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and visiting local attractions like Ocean World), and even the emotional tone of the trip.

When you collect these cards, you aren't just hoarding paper; you are curating a database of human stories. You are preserving the small, mundane, yet deeply significant details of how our ancestors spent their leisure time.

Why Start a Postcard Collection?

If you have ever felt a spark of curiosity when browsing through a dusty box at an antique shop, here is why you should lean into it:

1. It’s an Accessible Entry Point into History

Unlike collecting fine art or rare coins, postcard collecting is incredibly democratic. You can build a meaningful collection for the price of a cup of coffee. It allows you to become an expert in a specific niche—perhaps you focus solely on seaside towns in Dorset, or maybe you collect cards exclusively published by J. Salmon.

2. The Thrill of the Hunt

There is nothing quite like finding a card from a specific year, or one that features a long-vanished landmark. It turns a trip to a flea market into an archaeological dig.

3. Preserving "Lost" Landscapes

Many of the pubs, shops, and buildings shown on vintage postcards no longer exist or have been drastically remodelled. These cards serve as vital documentation of architectural and social changes. By keeping them safe, you are ensuring that these vanished glimpses of daily life aren't forgotten entirely.

Tips for the Aspiring Deltiologist

If you are ready to start your journey into postcard collecting, keep these three pillars in mind:

• Focus on Themes: While you might start by buying everything you like, a collection becomes truly valuable (both personally and financially) when it is focused. Try themes like "Coastal Towns of the 1970s," "Railway Station Views," or "Postcards with Handwritten Correspondence."

• Condition Matters: Collectors use a grading system—Mint, Very Good, and Good. While a card with a crease may still hold great sentimental value, if you are looking to build a collection with long-term preservation in mind, aim for cards with sharp corners and clean edges.

• Proper Storage: Never store your postcards in a humid attic or direct sunlight. Use acid-free archival sleeves and binders. This ensures that the vibrant colours of your J. Salmon cards remain as vivid in another forty years as they are today.

Final Thoughts: The Sentimental Value

The postcard from Christchurch is more than just a souvenir of a day trip; it is a message sent across time. It tells us that for the people in the photo—and the person who wrote it—the simple pleasure of a day at the harbour was worth capturing and sharing.

Next time you see a vintage postcard, take a moment to read the writing on the back. You aren't just reading a greeting; you are listening to a whisper from the past. Whether you are a seasoned collector or just starting out, remember that you are the guardian of these stories. Keep them, cherish them, and let them continue to tell the tale of the world as it once was.

The Oasis in the Volcano: Discovering Haría, Lanzarote’s Valley of a Thousand Palms

 When you think of Lanzarote, your mind likely drifts to the dramatic, moon-like landscapes of the Timanfaya National Park, vast stretches of volcanic lava, and iconic black sand beaches. It is a land defined by fire, wind, and a stark, beautiful desolation. Yet, hidden in the northern highlands, there exists a startling, verdant secret—a place that defies the arid reputation of the island.

This is Haría, famously known as El Valle de las Mil Palmeras, or "The Valley of the Thousand Palms."

Stepping into Haría is like walking into a living postcard—not unlike the vintage one you might find tucked away in a dusty collection, showing lush palm groves set against a backdrop of imposing, slumbering volcanoes. It is a place of profound tranquillity, where the frantic pace of modern life seems to dissolve into the humid, fertile air. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or an artist seeking inspiration, Haría offers an enchanting respite from the typical tourist trail.

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The Origins of an Oasis: Why a Thousand Palms?

The moniker "Valley of the Thousand Palms" is not merely a poetic flourish of tourism marketing; it is a testament to an enduring local tradition. Centuries ago, legend has it that for every child born in the village, the family would plant a palm tree. Over generations, this simple, loving practice transformed the dry valley floor into a lush, towering canopy of green that acts as a natural oasis amidst the volcanic geology of the island.

This fertility is further bolstered by a unique microclimate. Tucked away within a natural basin formed by three surrounding volcanoes, the valley is protected from the relentless trade winds that scour the rest of the island. This protection, combined with a slightly higher rainfall than the southern plains, creates an ideal environment for flora to thrive. As you descend the winding mountain roads towards the village, the vista that opens before you is nothing short of breathtaking: a sea of emerald palms contrasted against the stark, ochre-coloured mountainsides and the brilliant, whitewashed traditional houses of the village below.

A Cultural Haven: The Legacy of César Manrique

You cannot talk about Haría without discussing its most famous resident, the visionary artist and architect César Manrique. Manrique, whose work defined the aesthetic of modern Lanzarote, fell in love with the peace and authenticity of this northern valley. He didn’t just live here; he became part of the fabric of the community.

Today, visitors can experience this intimate connection at the Casa Museo César Manrique. Unlike some of his larger, more commercialised projects elsewhere on the island, his home in Haría feels deeply personal. It was designed to blend seamlessly with the palm trees and the natural surroundings, reflecting his philosophy that art and nature should be inseparable. Walking through his workshop, preserved as it was when he lived there, offers a rare glimpse into the mind of the man who saved the island from mass high-rise development.

Unwinding in the Heart of the Village

The soul of Haría is undoubtedly its historic centre, specifically the Plaza León y Castillo. Unlike the bustling resorts of the south, this square invites you to slow down. Tall laurel and eucalyptus trees provide a canopy of shade, casting dappled light onto the stone benches where elderly locals pass the time in conversation.

• The Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación: As all roads in the village seem to lead to this spot, the church stands as a proud landmark of the town. Inside, you can find a rich collection of religious art, offering a quiet moment of reflection.

• The Saturday Artesanal Market: If you find yourself in the village on a Saturday morning, the plaza transforms. The air fills with the scents of fresh organic produce and the buzz of local artisans selling handmade crafts, jewellery, and traditional Canarian pottery. It is the perfect place to pick up an authentic souvenir that directly supports the local economy.

• Gastronomy: Relax in one of the many cafes lining the square. Whether it’s a simple café solo or a full meal of locally sourced slow-cooked meats and fresh vegetables, the quality of the food here is a reflection of the valley's agricultural heritage.

Beyond the Village: Exploring the Northern Highlands

While the village itself is a destination worth savouring, Haría also serves as the perfect base for exploring the wilder, rugged side of northern Lanzarote.

Hiking and Nature Trails

The surrounding mountains offer some of the most spectacular hiking in the Canary Islands. The GR131 footpath passes through the area, offering long-distance trekkers a chance to traverse the ridge lines with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the nearby island of La Graciosa. For a shorter, family-friendly outing, a hike up toward the Bosquecillo area provides a picnic spot with sweeping views that are arguably some of the best on the island.

Iconic Landmarks Near Haría

Just a short, scenic drive from the village, you will find some of the island’s most important landmarks, all of which bear the artistic stamp of Manrique:

1. Mirador del Río: Designed by César Manrique, this is more than just a viewpoint; it is an architectural marvel carved into the cliffside. From here, you look down onto the Chinijo Archipelago, with the island of La Graciosa appearing like a floating jewel in the turquoise water.

2. Cueva de los Verdes: This massive, subterranean lava tube is part of one of the longest volcanic tunnels in the world. Guided tours here are a must, offering a surreal walk through a landscape that looks like the interior of another planet.

3. Jameos del Agua: Located close to the cave system, this is another of Manrique’s masterpieces. It is a stunning blend of natural volcanic rock formations and modern design, featuring a natural underground lake home to rare, blind white crabs, and an exquisite pool area that feels like a film set.

Why Haría Should Be on Your Travel List

In an era where travel often feels like a checklist of "must-see" attractions, Haría is an invitation to just "be." It is not a place for those who want round-the-clock nightlife or all-inclusive resort amenities. It is a place for those who appreciate the quiet dignity of a farming community, the profound beauty of a desert turned lush, and the authentic heartbeat of Canarian culture.

The "Valley of the Thousand Palms" serves as a reminder of the fragility and the resilience of life. It reminds us that even in the middle of a volcanic landscape, beauty can flourish with care, tradition, and a deep respect for the environment.

When you pack your bags for your next trip, consider swapping the crowded beaches for the shaded, quiet streets of Haría. Wander through the palm groves, listen to the whisper of the wind through the fronds, and experience the Lanzarote that the locals know and cherish. It is, quite simply, the soul of the island.

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Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Getting There: While bus routes exist, hiring a car provides the most freedom to explore the northern highlands at your own pace. The drive from the airport to Haría takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes and the journey itself is a visual treat.

• Best Time to Visit: Thanks to its unique microclimate, Haría is beautiful year-round. However, if you are planning to do extensive hiking, the spring and autumn months offer the most comfortable temperatures.

• Respect the Environment: Like much of Lanzarote, Haría is a delicate ecosystem. Please stick to marked footpaths when hiking and ensure you follow local guidance regarding the preservation of the palm groves.

• Savour the Silence: Haría is known for its peaceful, harmonious atmosphere. Embracing this, rather than rushing through, is the key to truly experiencing what makes this village so special.

Haría is more than just a destination; it is an experience of connection—to the land, to history, and to the quiet, enduring traditions that make travel meaningful. Whether you are looking at a faded postcard or planning your next adventure, let this valley of palms beckon you. You will find that its beauty is far more than skin deep; it is etched into the very volcanic rock that cradles it.

Echoes of East Anglia: Discovering the Timeless Charm of All Saints Church, Eyke

 There is a specific, quiet magic found in the flint-knapped walls of a Suffolk village church. It’s a beauty that doesn't shout; it hums with the frequency of a thousand years of Sunday mornings, local whispers, and the steady rhythm of rural life. Today, I’m pulling a particularly evocative piece from my postcard collection: a vintage view of All Saints Church in Eyke, a small but historically rich parish nestled near Woodbridge.

This postcard isn’t just a piece of cardstock; it’s a portal. Through the grainy texture of the print and the soft, saturated colours typical of mid-century photography, we get to step back into a moment where the grass was neatly shorn, the shadows of the trees danced across the churchyard path, and the world felt perhaps a little slower.

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Dating the Scene: A Postcard Detective Story

Part of the joy of collecting vintage postcards is playing detective. Looking at the reverse of this card, we see it was published by F. W. Pawsey & Sons, Ipswich. The Pawsey family were prominent stationers and publishers in Suffolk for decades, known for their high-quality local views.

The specific "KN" serial number (KN 1455) on the front and the graphic design of the stamp box on the back give us some solid clues:

• The Printing Style: The front uses a "photo-chrome" process, which became the standard for color postcards from the 1950s onwards. The slightly "dotted" texture and the specific hue of the greens and blues suggest a production date in the late 1960s or early 1970s.

• The Typography: The clean, sans-serif font used for "All Saints Church, Eyke" is very typical of late mid-century British publishing.

• The Stamp Box: The stylized envelope icon in the "Affix Stamp Here" box is a classic marker of the 1970s. Earlier cards often used more ornate borders or simply a dotted square.

Given these markers, we are likely looking at Eyke as it appeared roughly 50 to 55 years ago. It’s a window into a post-war Britain that was modernizing, yet where the village church remained the undisputed heart of the community.

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The Architectural Soul of Eyke

All Saints Church is a fascinating specimen of Suffolk’s architectural evolution. When you look at the postcard, your eye is immediately drawn to the flint-and-rubble construction. This isn't just an aesthetic choice; it’s a geological one. In East Anglia, where natural building stone is scarce, medieval builders mastered the art of "knapping" flint—splitting the hard stones to reveal their dark, glassy interiors.

The Norman Foundations

While the postcard shows a peaceful, unified structure, the history of All Saints is a tapestry of different eras. The core of the church is Norman, dating back to the 12th century. If you were to walk through that porch shown in the photo, you would find evidence of a central tower that once stood over the crossing—a common feature in Norman cruciform churches that was later removed or collapsed.

The Gothic Flourish

The windows visible in the postcard tell the story of the 14th and 15th centuries. Notice the Perpendicular Gothic style of the window to the right of the porch. The vertical stone mullions and the elegant tracery are classic hallmarks of the late Middle Ages, a time when Suffolk was booming due to the wool trade, and villages competed to have the most "modern" and light-filled houses of worship.

The Protective Porch

The porch itself, which dominates the centre-left of the image, serves a dual purpose. Historically, the porch was where the first part of baptismal and marriage ceremonies took place before the party entered the hallowed ground of the nave. It also protected the heavy oak doors from the harsh East Anglian winds that sweep in from the North Sea.

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A Walk Through the Churchyard

One of the most poignant aspects of this postcard is the glimpse of the table tombs and headstones. In the 1970s, as today, these stones stood as silent sentinels for families like the Malletts, the Smiths, and the local farming dynasties that shaped Eyke.

The churchyard at All Saints is famously well-kept, and in this vintage view, you can see the long shadows of the trees bordering the site. Eyke sits on the edge of the Sandlings, a unique landscape of lowland heath. The soil here is light and sandy (hence the name "Eyke," which is thought to derive from the Old Norse word for "oak"), and the flora of the churchyard often reflects this unique ecology.

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Why the "Small" Churches Matter

In the world of church-crawling (a beloved British pastime!), people often flock to the "Wool Churches" like Lavenham or Long Melford. They are grand, soaring cathedrals of commerce. However, there is something deeply intimate about a church like Eyke.

It represents the continuity of English life. For nearly 900 years, people have entered this building during their most vulnerable and most joyous moments. They have sheltered here during the Black Death, prayed for sons fighting in the World Wars, and gathered for harvest festivals. When we look at this postcard from my collection, we aren't just looking at a building; we are looking at a communal anchor.

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Collecting the Past: The Value of the Local Postcard

You might wonder why I keep cards like this. In the age of 4K digital photography and Google Street View, what does a 50-year-old piece of printed card offer?

1. Atmosphere: Digital photos are often too "perfect." This postcard captures the feeling of a summer afternoon in 1972. The colours are how we remember the past in our mind's eye.

2. Change Over Time: If you visit Eyke today, you'll notice changes—perhaps in the trees, the pathing, or the weathering of the flint. Postcards are the most accessible "time machines" we have for local history.

3. The Human Connection: Someone bought this card, perhaps on a holiday to the Suffolk coast or a visit to nearby Rendlesham Forest. They might have sent it to a loved one with a simple "Weather is lovely, wish you were here." It carries a legacy of human interaction.

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Visiting Eyke Today

If this postcard has inspired you to visit, Eyke is located just a few miles from Woodbridge and is a stone's throw from the famous Sutton Hoo Anglo-Saxon burial site.

While you are there, look for the "Eyke Brasses" inside the church—15th-century monumental brasses that are among some of the finest in the county. The interior also boasts a wonderful 15th-century font, carved with lions and angels, which has survived the iconoclasm of the Reformation.

The church remains active, a living piece of history that continues to serve the village just as it did when F.W. Pawsey’s photographer set up his tripod all those decades ago.

A Journey Back to Mid-Century Bradford

 There is a specific, quiet magic in holding a piece of history that was never meant to be "history" at all. Postcards, like the one from my collection featured here, were the "instant messages" of their era—brief, functional, and deeply personal. Yet, decades later, they transform into windows. This particular specimen, a stunning "Real Photograph" postcard of Town Hall Square in Bradford, doesn't just show us a location; it captures a moment in the rhythmic pulse of a powerhouse industrial city in transition.

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Dating the Scene: When was this Bradford?

Dating a vintage postcard is a bit like being a historical detective. We have two primary sets of clues: the topographical evidence on the front and the postal evidence on the back.

The Postmark Evidence

The most immediate piece of data is the postmark. It is clearly stamped "BRADFORD YORKSHIRE - 1:30 PM - 12 SEP 1951." This gives us a definitive "latest possible" date for the photograph. However, publishers often reused popular street scenes for years.

The Visual Clues

Looking at the front of the card, we see a city that feels both Victorian and modern (for the time):

• The Vehicles: We see a mix of early post-war buses and the distinctive overhead lines for Bradford’s famous trolleybus system. Bradford was a pioneer in trolleybuses, being one of the first UK cities to introduce them in 1911 and the last to abandon them in 1972.

• The Fashion: The pedestrians are wearing heavy overcoats and hats—the standard uniform of the British working class in the late 1940s and early 50s.

• The Stamp: The 2d (two pence) "carmine-red" stamp features King George VI. Since he passed away in February 1952, this postcard was mailed in the twilight of his reign.

Verdict: While the photo may have been taken in the late 1940s, the card was sold and mailed in the late summer of 1951, during the year of the Festival of Britain, a time when the UK was finally beginning to emerge from the shadow of post-war austerity.

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The Architecture of Ambition: The Town Hall

Dominating the centre of the image is the magnificent Bradford Town Hall (now City Hall). Completed in 1873 and designed by Lockwood and Mawson, its 220-foot clock tower was inspired by the Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.

Look closely at the facade in the photo. It appears dark, almost soot-blackened. This wasn't the natural colour of the stone, but a "patina" of the Industrial Revolution. In 1951, Bradford was still a global hub for the wool trade. The chimneys of the massive mills surrounding the city centre pumped out smoke that reacted with the local sandstone, giving the buildings a sombre, gritty majesty that defined the northern skyline for a century. It wouldn’t be until the Clean Air Acts and the subsequent sandblasting of the 1970s that the honey-coloured stone we see today was revealed.

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A Walk Through the Square

What I love most about this photograph is the sheer density of life.

The Yorkshire Penny Bank

On the right, we see the prominent signage for the Yorkshire Penny Bank. Founded in 1859, this institution was the heartbeat of the local economy, encouraging the "thrifty" working class of the North to save their copper and silver. Seeing it here reminds us of a time when banking was a local, face-to-face affair, rooted in the community.

The Pointsman

Right in the middle of the road stands a solitary figure that has long since vanished from our streets: a Police Officer directing traffic. Before the widespread installation of automated traffic lights, "pointsmen" were the human conductors of the city's chaotic orchestra, managing the flow of buses, cars, and the occasional horse-drawn cart with nothing but hand signals and a whistle.

The Burton Building

To the left, the "Montague Burton" building stands tall. Burton was the "Tailor of Taste," and almost every major British town had one of these grand, Art Deco or Neoclassical buildings on a prominent corner. It represents the era when "going into town" meant dressing up; a time when you could get a made-to-measure suit for a few guineas.

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The Human Touch: "Dear Girls..."

Turning the card over, the history becomes intimate. The message, written in a neat, flowing cursive, reads:

"15 St Margaret’s Rd, Wednesday. Dear Girls, I had a nice journey here & feel fine this morning. We are having chicken for dinner today. Mrs Jones & Taylor are well & very pleased to have me here. Hope you are all right. With love from Alice."

It is addressed to Miss A & B Brookman at 74 Marshland Bank, Preston, Lancs.

In 1951, "having chicken for dinner" was a significant detail. Meat rationing in the UK didn't fully end until 1954. To mention chicken—a luxury at the time—suggested a special occasion or a very generous host. Alice’s note is a reminder that while the grand architecture of Bradford stood tall, the real stories were found in the small comforts: a safe journey, a warm welcome, and a rare Sunday-style dinner on a Wednesday.

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Why We Collect: Preserving the "Ordinary"

I often get asked why I collect old postcards. It’s because of the contrast between the front and the back. The front is the Public Image: the grand town hall, the pride of the municipality, the "look how impressive we are" shot.

The back is the Private Reality: the mundane updates about health, the weather, and what’s for tea.

When you combine them, you get a 3D view of the past. You see the world that Alice walked through as she went to find a letterbox. She likely walked past that very Yorkshire Penny Bank, heard the rattle of those trolleybus wires, and looked up at that clock tower to check the time before heading back to St. Margaret’s Road.

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Conclusion: Bradford Today vs. Then

If you stand in this spot today, much has changed. The "Square" has evolved into Centenary Square, a beautiful public space with a massive mirror pool and fountains. The soot is gone, the trolleybuses are a memory, and the "pointsmen" have been replaced by sensors and algorithms.

Yet, the Town Hall clock still strikes the hour, just as it did for Alice in 1951.

Postcards like this are more than just paper and ink; they are anchors. They keep us connected to the people who built our cities, who lived through the lean years, and who still found the time to send a 2d greeting to their "girls" back home in Preston.

Wish You Were Here: A Sun-Drenched Escape to Miesbach, Upper Bavaria

 There is a specific kind of magic found in the tactile nature of an old postcard. Holding a piece of mail that travelled across borders decades ago connects us to a specific moment in time—a snapshot of a world before instant messaging, where the "wish you were here" sentiment was penned with ink and patience. Today, we’re diving into a beautiful multi-view postcard from my personal collection, sent from the heart of Upper Bavaria (Oberbayern) to a bustling kitchen in Somerset, England.

This isn’t just a piece of cardstock; it’s a portal to the Alpine foothills, a testament to mid-century travel, and a cheeky nod to the universal desire to swap a hot stove for a cold beer.

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The Visual Journey: Miesbach in Technicolor

The front of the postcard is a classic "Gruss aus" (Greetings from) style montage, featuring eight distinct views of Miesbach and its stunning surroundings. The colour saturation suggests a mid-20th-century printing process, likely a colorized photograph or early offset lithography, giving the Bavarian landscape that iconic, dreamlike vibrance.

1. The Heart of the Town: Miesbach & Marktplatz

The top-left and top-right panels introduce us to the town itself. Miesbach is the seat of its namesake district and sits nestled in the Mangfall Mountains. The Marktplatz (Market Square) view is particularly fascinating for history buffs—just look at those vintage cars! We can spot the rounded curves of several Volkswagen Beetles and early European sedans, which help us narrow down the era.

2. Spiritual Landmarks: Stadtpfarrkirche & Am Michelsbrunnen

The Stadtpfarrkirche (Town Parish Church), dedicated to St. Mary, stands tall with its distinctive onion dome—a staple of Bavarian architecture. In the centre, we see the Michelsbrunnen, a fountain featuring Saint Michael, located in the town square. This fountain has long been a meeting point for locals and travellers alike.

3. Alpine Escapes: Schliersee & Tegernsee

Miesbach serves as the gateway to some of Germany’s most famous lakes. The bottom panels show Schliersee and Tegernsee. These glacial lakes, framed by the towering Alps, have been premier "Sommerfrische" (summer retreat) destinations for centuries. Even in this small format, the crystal-blue water and the sharp peaks of the mountains invite the viewer to breathe in the crisp mountain air.

4. Daily Life: Post, Bahnhof, and Knabenschule

The card also highlights the town’s infrastructure, showing the Post and Bahnhof (Post Office and Railway Station) and the Knabenschule (Boys' School). These inclusions tell us that Miesbach took pride in its modernization and civic buildings during this period.

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Decoding the Message: "No Hot Kitchens!"

While the front of the card is a beautiful travelogue, the back provides the human story. The message is addressed to the "Kitchen Staff" at the Manor Hotel in Yeovil, Somerset, England.

The text reads:

"Dear Chef, Paul & Alec, life in the beer-halls is fun!! The sun shines—90°F!!!—life is quite pleasant—no hot kitchens!!! Sarah."

Sarah’s message is relatable to anyone who has ever worked a high-pressure job. It seems she was a member of the Manor Hotel’s culinary team taking a well-deserved break. Her playful dig at the "hot kitchens" while she enjoys the 90-degree Bavarian heat (a rare scorcher for the region!) highlights the freedom of the traveller. The mention of "beer-halls" confirms she was soaking up the authentic Bavarian experience—likely enjoying a Helles or a Weissbier in one of Miesbach’s traditional taverns.

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The Detective Work: Dating the Postcard

As a collector, one of the most exciting tasks is pinpointing exactly when a card was sent. We have several clues on the reverse side:

• The Stamp: The card features a red 60 Pfennig "Deutsche Bundespost" stamp. This stamp is part of the Industrie und Technik (Industry and Technology) definitive series. Specifically, it depicts a Röntgengerät (X-ray machine). This series was first issued in the mid-1970s (1975 onwards).

• The Postmark: If we look closely at the circular cancellation stamp from Miesbach, we can see the date 25. 8. 81. This places Sarah’s vacation squarely in the late summer of 1981.

• The Temperature: Sarah mentions it is 90°F. In August 1981, Europe experienced several heatwaves. While 90°F (approx. 32°C) is high for the Alps, it perfectly aligns with a peak summer "hitze" (heatwave) that would make a cool beer hall much more appealing than a professional kitchen in Yeovil.

• The Destination: The Manor Hotel in Yeovil is a historic building that still stands today. Knowing that Sarah sent this to "Chef, Paul, and Alec" adds a wonderful layer of local Somerset history to this German souvenir.

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Bavaria in the 80s: A Cultural Snapshot

In 1981, Miesbach would have been a town caught between tradition and the burgeoning tourism of the late 20th century. The "beer-halls" Sarah mentioned were (and are) the social centers of the community. In Upper Bavaria, these aren't just places to drink; they are places where Gemütlichkeit—that untranslatable German word for cosiness, cheer, and social belonging—is practiced daily.

The postcards of this era often used "Lübeck" printing houses (as seen on the vertical text: Verlag Schöning & Co + Gebrüder Schmidt - Lübeck). This company was one of the giants of the German postcard industry, responsible for documenting thousands of towns across the Federal Republic.

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Why Postcards Still Matter

In a world of Instagram stories that disappear in 24 hours, this postcard has survived for over 40 years. It tells us about:

1. Postal History: The cost of sending a card from Germany to England in 1981 (60 Pfennig).

2. Social Connections: The camaraderie of kitchen workers.

3. Geography: The enduring beauty of the Tegernsee and Schliersee regions.

Sarah probably didn't think her quick note to the Chef would be analysed decades later, but that is the beauty of the written word. It preserves a moment of joy—a sun-drenched day in Miesbach where the only worry was how cold the next beer would be.

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Final Thoughts

Whether you are a deltiologist (a postcard collector), a lover of Bavarian culture, or someone who appreciates a good "out of office" message, this Miesbach card is a gem. It reminds us that no matter where we are in the world, the need to step away from the "hot kitchen" of life and find a sunny spot with good friends is universal.

The "Crookedest" Church in Britain: A Journey to St. Martin’s, Cwmyoy

 There is a peculiar magic in old postcards. They are tiny windows into the past, capturing a moment in time before the world rushed forward. In my collection, few images are as arresting as this monochrome view of St. Martin’s Church in Cwmyoy, Monmouthshire. At first glance, you might think the photographer was standing on a slope or that the camera lens was warped. But look closer at the horizon and the trees—the world is straight; it is the church that is falling.

Widely known as the "crookedest church in Britain," St. Martin’s is a testament to both the instability of the earth and the stubborn resilience of faith.

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Dating the Postcard: A Philatelic Mystery

When examining a postcard from a personal collection, the reverse often tells as much of a story as the front. This particular card features the "Post Office Preferred" logo in the top right corner. This small graphic is a vital clue for any deltiologist (postcard collector).

The "Post Office Preferred" (POP) scheme was introduced by the British General Post Office in 1968. It was designed to encourage the use of standardized envelope and card sizes to accommodate the new automated sorting machines. The presence of this specific logo, combined with the typography of the "LITONE" brand and the "POST CARD" header, suggests this card likely dates from the late 1960s to the mid-1970s.

The black-and-white photography has a high-contrast, moody quality typical of mid-century local topographical cards. While the church has looked "broken" for centuries, this postcard captures it in a era just before modern heritage tourism exploded, showing it in a raw, almost haunting state.

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A Church Built on Shifting Sands (and Slate)

Located in the stunning Vale of Ewyas within the Black Mountains, St. Martin’s Church doesn’t just lean—it twists. The reason for its architectural eccentricity isn’t a whimsical builder, but rather the geology of the hillside.

The church was constructed on a prehistoric landslip of Old Red Sandstone. Over the centuries, the ground beneath the heavy stone walls has continued to move. As the earth shifted, the chancel, the nave, and the massive tower all began to tilt in different directions.

The Lean by the Numbers:

• The tower leans at an angle even more acute than the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

• The interior is equally disorienting; the floor slopes, the windows are no longer rectangular, and the roof timbers have been reinforced to prevent the whole structure from collapsing inward.

If you were to stand inside the nave today, you would notice that the chancel twists away from the main body of the church—a phenomenon often called a "weeping chancel," though here it is caused by gravity rather than symbolic design.

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The Architecture of Resilience

Looking at the postcard, you can see the massive buttresses added to the exterior. These weren't part of the original medieval design but were essential "crutches" added later to keep the building standing.

Despite its precarious appearance, St. Martin’s remains a working parish church. It is a Grade I listed building, protected not just for its age (parts of it date back to the 12th century), but for the very "faults" that make it unique. It serves as a metaphor for the Welsh spirit—battered by the elements and shifting grounds, yet refusing to fall.

The graveyard, visible in the foreground of the postcard, shares the church's fate. Gravestones tilt at jaunty angles, appearing as if they are marching down the hill toward the valley floor.

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Why Cwmyoy Matters to Collectors

For those of us who collect postcards of British heritage, Cwmyoy is a "bucket list" location. It represents the intersection of natural history and human endeavour. When this postcard was printed by Litone, they chose a low-angle shot that emphasizes the tower's dramatic deviation from the vertical.

The starkness of the black-and-white film highlights the texture of the local stone and the deep shadows of the surrounding yew trees. It captures a sense of stillness and isolation that is hard to find in the modern, digital age.

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Visiting St. Martin’s Today

If this postcard inspires you to visit the Black Mountains, Cwmyoy is located just a few miles north of Abergavenny. The drive through the Llanthony Valley is one of the most beautiful in Wales, leading you past steep ridges and ancient ruins.

When you step inside St. Martin’s, the first thing you’ll feel is a sense of vertigo. It is a rare place where you can actually feel the weight of history—and the weight of the stone—pressing against the laws of physics.

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Final Thoughts from the Collection

This Litone postcard is more than just a piece of stationary; it is a record of survival. Whether you are a fan of "eccentric Britain," a geology enthusiast, or a lover of Welsh history, the crooked church of Cwmyoy stands as one of the most remarkable sites in the UK.

I often wonder who first bought this card. Did they send it to a friend to prove that such a building existed? Or did they keep it as a souvenir of a windy afternoon in Monmouthshire, marvelling at a tower that, by all rights, should have fallen long ago?

The Glass Palace of Gloucestershire: Remembering the Cheltenham Winter Gardens

 There is a specific kind of magic found in old postcards. They aren't just pieces of paper; they are tactile "time machines" that allow us to step back into a world of horse-drawn carriages, promenade concerts, and architectural ambition. Today, I’m sharing a prized item from my collection: a stunning colorized postcard of the Winter Gardens in Cheltenham, Gloucestershire.

Looking at the vibrant blue dome and the elegantly dressed figures strolling in the foreground, it’s hard to believe that this massive structure—once the rival of London's Crystal Palace—no longer graces the Cheltenham skyline.

A Victorian Vision in Glass and Iron

The story of the Cheltenham Winter Gardens began in the mid-19th century. During this era, "Winter Gardens" were the height of fashion. They were designed to provide a tropical escape for the British elite during the biting cold months, allowing the wealthy to walk among exotic plants and socialise in a climate-controlled environment.

Opened in 1878, the Cheltenham Winter Gardens was an architectural marvel of its day. Located on the site where the Imperial Gardens and the Town Hall stand today, it was a massive conservatory built primarily of iron and glass. Its most striking feature, clearly visible in the postcard, was the enormous central dome, which rose nearly 100 feet into the air.

The Postcard Detail

The front of this postcard shows the building from the promenade side. Note the rich greenery of the trees on the left, which suggests a summer’s day despite the "Winter" name. The colorization process (typical of the early 1900s) gives the sky a dreamy, painted quality and highlights the "Prussian Blue" tint of the glass panels.

On the reverse, we see the classic "Divided Back" layout, which helps us date the card. Before 1902, the Post Office required the entire back of a card to be reserved for the address only. Since this card has a dedicated "Communication" side and an "Address" side, we know it was printed sometime after 1902, likely in the Edwardian heyday of the building.

Life Inside the Winter Gardens

What was it like to step through those glass doors? For a Victorian or Edwardian visitor, it was an assault on the senses. The interior was filled with:

• Exotic Flora: Rare ferns, palms, and flowering plants brought in from across the British Empire.

• The Roller Skating Rink: One of the building's most popular attractions was a massive rink. "Rinking" became a massive craze in the 1870s and 80s, and the Winter Gardens was the place to be seen on wheels.

• Grand Concerts: The building had incredible acoustics. It hosted world-class orchestras and was a primary venue for the Cheltenham Musical Festival.

• Exhibitions: From dog shows to floral competitions, the vast open floor space made it the premier event hub of the Cotswolds.

The Decline of a Landmark

Despite its beauty, the Winter Gardens was a victim of its own ambition. Maintaining a structure of that size—made almost entirely of glass and iron—was an engineering nightmare and a financial drain. The Cheltenham weather was not kind to the ironwork, and the cost of heating such a cavernous space was astronomical.

By the early 20th century, the building had fallen into a state of semi-repair. During World War I, it served as a practical space for the military, but its "glamour" days were fading.

The final blow came in the 1940s. The structure had become dangerous, with glass panes frequently falling from the roof. In 1942, the decision was made to demolish the great glass palace. Most of the iron was salvaged for the war effort, melting down a piece of Cheltenham’s Victorian heritage to help fuel the fight for the future.

Why We Collect: Preserving the "Ghost Buildings"

When I look at this postcard, I feel a sense of "Hiraeth"—a Welsh word for a longing for a place that no longer exists. Today, if you walk through Cheltenham's Imperial Gardens, you are walking on the "ghost" of this building. The site now hosts the Cheltenham Festivals (Literature, Jazz, Science, and Music), carrying on the legacy of culture and gathering that the Winter Gardens started over 140 years ago.

Collecting these cards is about more than just the image; it’s about the "Printed in Bavaria" mark on the back (noting the high-quality German lithography of the time) and the "GD&D" star logo. It’s about holding a piece of history that survived when the building itself did not.

The Timeless Charm of Dartmouth Castle and St. Petrox Church

 There is a specific kind of magic found in the corners of a vintage postcard. It’s a tactile connection to a moment in time, a physical piece of "wish you were here" that has survived decades of junk drawers, attic boxes, and collectors' binders. Today, I’m diving into a beautiful piece from my personal collection: a textured "Collectors" postcard featuring the iconic Dartmouth Castle and the neighbouring St. Petrox Church in Devon, England.

This isn’t just a souvenir; it’s a window into the artistic heritage of the English Riviera and the enduring appeal of the South West coast.

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Dating the Scene: A 1980s Artistic Revival

One of the first things any postcard collector does is flip the card over. While the front provides the beauty, the back provides the biography.

Based on the copyright information and the publishing details, we can date this specific card quite accurately. The back states:

"Copyright 1982 Kevin Platt / D.G. Thomas"

Published by Pictures (Cornwall) Ltd. based in Wadebridge (Tel: Wadebridge 2152), this card is a product of the early 1980s. During this era, there was a significant trend in British tourism for "artistic" postcards—moving away from high-gloss, saturated photography toward textured, painterly reproductions.

The artist, Kevin Platt, was well-known for his evocative maritime and coastal scenes across Cornwall and Devon. His style often utilized a muted, earthy palette that captured the rugged stone of the castles and the misty, atmospheric light of the English Channel. This particular card, labelled as a "Collectors" Postcard, was likely sold in local gift shops or galleries to tourists visiting the South Hams district during the early to mid-80s.

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The Subject: A Fortress at the Water’s Edge

The illustration on the front of the card captures one of the most picturesque defensive sites in the UK. Dartmouth Castle has stood guard over the narrow entrance to the Dart Estuary for over 600 years.

1. A Pioneer of Artillery

What makes Dartmouth Castle historically significant—and so visually striking in Platt’s illustration—is that it was among the first "purpose-built" coastal artillery forts in England. While many castles were designed for knights and archers, Dartmouth was built with the "new" technology of gunpowder in mind. If you look closely at the lower levels of the stone structure in the artwork, you can see the heavy walls designed to house cannons that could sink any ship attempting to sneak into the harbor.

2. St. Petrox Church: The Spiritual Sentry

Directly attached to the castle complex is St. Petrox Church. Its square tower is a dominant feature in the postcard’s composition. It is a rare sight to see a house of God and a house of war so intimately entwined. Originally a small chapel for the souls of sailors, it grew into the beautiful church seen today. In the artwork, the soft ivy creeping up the tower and the warm glow of the stone suggest a peace that contrasts with the castle’s militant history.

3. The "Iron Chain"

Though you can’t see it in the painting, history buffs will know that in times of war, a massive iron chain was stretched from Dartmouth Castle across the river to Gallows Point on the opposite bank. This would literally "lock" the river, preventing enemy fleets from reaching the wealthy town of Dartmouth upstream.

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Analysing the Artwork: Kevin Platt’s Vision

Kevin Platt’s rendition of Dartmouth is masterful in its use of light. The sky has a pale, yellow-green tint, suggesting either a very early morning or a hazy summer evening.

• The Vessels: In the foreground, we see traditional sailing boats and small rowing dinghies. These aren't modern speedboats; they are timeless vessels that reinforce the "old world" feel of the South West. The way the masts cut into the horizon adds a sense of vertical scale to the looming cliffs.

• The Texture: The postcard itself has a subtle "linen" or matte texture (visible in the scan), which gives the image a depth that modern digital prints often lack. It feels like a miniature oil painting you can hold in your hand.

• The Composition: By positioning the viewer at water level amongst the rocks, Platt makes the castle feel impenetrable and grand. The stone steps leading up from the water’s edge invite the viewer to "step into" the scene.

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Why We Collect: The Power of the Postcard

In 1982, when this card was printed, the world was a different place. There were no smartphones to capture a 4K video of the Dart Estuary. If you wanted to share the beauty of Devon with a friend in London or New York, you bought a card like this, licked a stamp, and dropped it in a bright red pillar box.

Collecting these cards today is about more than just the image. It’s about:

• Artistic Preservation: Celebrating artists like Kevin Platt who captured the British coastline before the era of digital saturation.

• Local History: Seeing how the landscape of Dartmouth has—or hasn't—changed. Remarkably, the view in this 1982 card looks almost identical to the view you would see today, a testament to the conservation efforts of English Heritage.

• Tactile Connection: There is something incredibly satisfying about the weight and feel of a 40-year-old "Collectors" card.

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Visiting Dartmouth Today

If this postcard inspires you to visit, you’re in for a treat. Dartmouth remains one of the most beautiful towns in England. You can take a ferry from the town centre that drops you right at the base of the castle.

You can walk the same stone steps depicted in the artwork, explore the dark passages where cannons once sat, and then step into the cool, quiet interior of St. Petrox Church. Afterward, the South West Coast Path leads away from the castle, offering stunning views of the cliffs that Kevin Platt so lovingly painted.

This card is a beautiful reminder that while technology changes, the rugged beauty of the English coast is eternal. Whether you are a dedicated deltiologist (a postcard collector) or just someone who loves a bit of maritime history, this 1982 Kevin Platt piece is a quintessential slice of British heritage.

A Deep Dive into the 1980 British Rugby Union PHQ Card

 Collecting postcards is often like holding a miniature time capsule. Sometimes, the beauty lies in the handwritten message on the back; other times, it’s about the art, the history, and the intersection of different hobbies. Today, we’re looking at a standout piece from my personal collection: a Post Office Picture Card (PHQ) from 1980, celebrating the raw, muddy, and glorious world of Rugby Union.

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Dating the Card: A Philatelic Milestone

One of the best things about PHQ cards (the technical term for postcards issued by the British Post Office that reproduce the designs of commemorative stamps) is that they are incredibly easy to date. Unlike vintage scenic postcards that require a detective's eye for fashion or car models, this card tells us exactly when it was born.

According to the reverse of the card:

• Issue Date: 10 October 1980.

• Series: PHQ 47 (b).

• Event: This card was part of a "Sport" set issued to celebrate various British athletic pursuits.

• Artist: The dynamic, painterly design is credited to Robert Goldsmith.

By the late 1970s and early 1980s, the Royal Mail had perfected the "stamp on a card" format. This specific card was printed by The House of Questa, a famous security printer in London known for high-quality lithography. If you look closely at the "stamp" on the front, you’ll see the 13 1/2p denomination—a nostalgic reminder of what it cost to send a letter during the era of Mrs Thatcher!

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The Art of the Tackle: Robert Goldsmith’s Vision

The front of the card is a masterclass in capturing motion. In the 1980s, stamp design was moving away from static, formal portraits and toward more impressionistic, energetic styles.

Visual Analysis

The image depicts a high-stakes moment in a Rugby Union match. We see two players locked in the heat of the game:

1. The Ball Carrier: Dressed in a vibrant red kit (reminiscent of the Welsh national side or perhaps the British & Irish Lions), he is clutching the oval ball tightly. Goldsmith uses blurred, aggressive brushstrokes on the player's right side to simulate the speed of a sprint or the impact of a collision.

2. The Defender: Looming in a blue jersey, the second player is captured in a moment of intense focus, ready to execute a tackle.

3. The Silhouette: In the top right corner, we see the gold silhouette of Queen Elizabeth II. This is a standard requirement for British stamps, but here it provides a calm, regal contrast to the chaotic, visceral energy of the sport below.

The colour palette—deep blues, striking reds, and earthy browns—perfectly evokes the atmosphere of a cold, damp autumn afternoon at Twickenham or Cardiff Arms Park.

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Why 1980 Was a Pivotal Year for Rugby Union

To truly appreciate this postcard, we have to look at what was happening in the rugby world when it was released in October 1980. This was the era of Amateurism. Players weren't the hyper-conditioned professional athletes of today; they were teachers, miners, and office workers who played for the love of the game.

The 1980 Five Nations

Just months before this stamp was issued, England had achieved something legendary. Under the captaincy of Bill Beaumont, England won the 1980 Five Nations Championship, securing their first Grand Slam since 1957. The excitement surrounding rugby in Britain was at a fever pitch, making the Post Office’s decision to release a rugby-themed stamp set particularly timely.

The Style of Play

The 1980s was a decade of transition for the sport. It was becoming more tactical, but it remained a game of immense physical grit. When you look at the faces of the players on this postcard, Robert Goldsmith has captured that grit—the furrowed brows, the sweat, and the sheer determination.

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Collecting PHQ Cards: A Niche Worth Exploring

For those new to the hobby, PHQ cards are a fantastic entry point into both deltiology (postcard collecting) and philately (stamp collecting).

Why Collect Them?

• Affordability: Most PHQ cards from the 80s can still be found for a few pounds, though "First Day of Issue" cancelled versions can be worth more.

• Quality: Because they were printed by security printers like The House of Questa, the colour reproduction is often superior to standard commercial postcards.

• Themed Collections: Whether you love sport, British royalty, birds, or architecture, there is a PHQ set for you.

Identification Tips

If you find a card like this at a car boot sale or on eBay, always check the back. A genuine PHQ card will always have the Post Office logo, the PHQ number, and the designer's name. The "Sport (Rugby Union)" card is part of a four-card set; the others in the 1980 series featured Horse Racing, Cricket, and Athletics.

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The Legacy of the 13½p Stamp

In 1980, 13 1/2p was the second-class postage rate. It’s fascinating to think that this artwork was originally intended to be shrunk down to a tiny rectangle of paper, licked, and stuck on an envelope. By reproducing it on a postcard, the Post Office allowed the public to appreciate Goldsmith’s brushwork on a much larger scale.

As I look at this card in my collection today, it represents more than just a piece of cardboard. It’s a tribute to the "amateur" spirit of 1980, a celebration of British graphic design, and a snapshot of a time when a Grand Slam win could unite a nation.

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Collectors’ Corner: Value and Condition

If you are looking to add this specific card to your collection, here is what to look for:

• Mint Condition: No rounded corners, no foxing (brown spots), and no writing on the back.

• The "Gold" Silhouette: Ensure the gold foil of the Queen's silhouette is crisp and hasn't rubbed off.

• The Set: The card is significantly more desirable if you have the full PHQ 47 set.