Collecting Vintage Magazines

For many Australian collectors, vintage magazines are a nostalgic window into a time gone by. Among the most iconic are Pix and Post magazines, which reached the height of their popularity in the 1960s. These magazines were a staple in barber shops across the country, offering light reading, cheeky humour, and a glimpse into changing Australian values.

The appeal of Pix and Post lies in their eclectic mix of content. Each issue typically featured:

• Human interest stories from across Australia
• Scandals and revelations, often hinting at the taboo
• Evolving sexual attitudes, reflecting the social changes of the post-war decades
• Commentary on politics, fashion, and entertainment
• Humour through jokes, cartoons, and photo captions that would likely be deemed politically incorrect by today’s standards

Perhaps most memorable are the cover models, who were frequently young women in swimwear or lingerie, considered provocative at the time, and now viewed as a retro portrayal of beauty. These images captured the era’s mix of innocence and rebellion, with models often described as “curvaceous,” a stark contrast to the modern fashion industry’s changing ideals.

Collectors love these magazines not just for their covers, but for the cultural insight they offer. They are snapshots of mid-century Australia, touching on everything from suburban life to surf culture. Condition and completeness (including intact covers and all pages) add to their value, as does the publication date issues from the 1940s and early 1950s can be particularly sought after.

Whether you’re building a themed collection or just appreciate Australia’s quirky publishing history, Pix and Post offer a fun and fascinating start.

For help finding vintage Australian magazines or assessing the ones you have, contact us at info@lovevintagebooks.com.au

Happy collecting,

Margaret at Love Vintage Books