The short version
- Typical range: £10 – £200
- Biggest single factor: condition — see the table below
- Category: Art & Collectibles
- Cost to sell on WishThrift: nothing, at any price
What a used vintage posters is worth by condition
Condition does more to the price than anything else. These figures are worked from the top of the range for vintage posterss, so treat them as a starting point and adjust for the specifics of yours.
| Condition | Typical price | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| New with Tags | £200 | Unused, tags or seals intact |
| Like New | £170 | Barely used, no visible wear |
| Good | £130 | Light signs of use, complete and working |
| Fair | £90 | Heavily used, or a described fault or missing part |
| For Parts | £50 | Not working or incomplete, sold as seen |
These are the five grades WishThrift listings use, and sellers set the grade themselves — see what each condition grade means. Figures are shown in pounds as a reference point. On WishThrift prices display in your own currency, and sellers set their own asking price.
What raises the value of a vintage posters
- Original period printings with correct dimensions
- Linen-backed conservation work
- Recognised designers and sought-after titles
- Strong colour with no fading
What lowers it
- Later reproductions sold as originals
- Fold lines that have split
- Sun fading, which is irreversible
- Trimmed margins
How to work out what yours is worth
- Check the dimensions against known original sizes
- Look at the printing under magnification for dot patterns
- Photograph the margins and any fold lines
Once you have those three answers you can place your own vintage posters on the table above with reasonable confidence. If it sits between two rows, price it toward the lower one — items priced honestly sell faster than items priced hopefully.
Ready to sell it? Listing on WishThrift is free, there is no commission, and you keep the full amount you agree with the buyer — see how selling works or create a free account.
Frequently asked questions
How do I tell an original poster from a reproduction?
Check the dimensions against known original sizes and examine the printing under magnification. Modern reproductions show a regular dot pattern.
Does linen backing add value?
Usually yes. It is a conservation treatment that stabilises the paper and is standard for valuable posters.
Do fold lines matter?
Original posters were often folded and light lines are accepted. Splits along the folds are a different matter and reduce value.
More value guides: art & collectibles guides · all value guides · browse live art & collectibles listings.