COLLECTING MATCHCOVERS
by Mary M. Alward

The hobby of collecting matchcovers has become very popular in recent years. It is ranked second only to stamp collecting. People from every corner of the globe have a fascination with these colorful paper items.

Matchcovers are classified in two categories – used and new. Most collectors collect only new. A single scratch on the striker reduces the value of the matchcover significantly. Old and new highly collectible matchcovers are rare.

Collectors of matchcovers usually remove the staple and the matches. Special matchbooks or those that are old or fragile are left intact. These are known in the collecting field as “full books.”

Many collectors seek celebrity matchcovers. These include covers from celebrity owned businesses, celebrity endorsements, and promotional matches from movies and radio and television shows. They also include personal celebrity matches; political campaigns and celebrity autographed matchcovers as well as places that choose to depict a celebrity likeness, their logo or name.

The Diamond Match Company first produced celebrity matches in the 1930’s. Each set was categorized by topic. Football and baseball Greats and movie stars are depicted on the covers. These matchcovers are highly collectible and complete sets are extremely rare.

In 1951, the American Match Industry issued a high valued set of celebrity matches. One hundred and eleven stars from radio, television, the silver screen and stage were produced. The star’s caricature is on the front cover. His/her name is printed on the back. Each celebrity depicted was given two hundred matchbooks for personal use. Eva Gabor, Groucho Marx, Bob Hope, Ed Wynn, George Burns, Gracie Allen and Frank Sinatra are just a few of the stars who appeared on the covers. There are less than ten sets still in existence, which increases the value significantly.

Matchcovers from celebrity owned businesses are also highly collectible. Roy Rogers Family Restaurants, Pete Rose’s Restaurants, Mickey Mantle’s Restaurants and Ernest Tubb Record Shops fit into this category.

Entertainment promotional matches include Bob Hope, Dolly Parton and Diana Ross. Matchcovers from such television shows as Queen For A Day and The Flying Nun are also popular.

Some collectors add covers to their collections from famous places such as The Stork Club, The Brown Derby and the Copacabana.

These days, matches are becoming harder to find. Disposable lighters and smoking bans have made them scarce, though quality covers can still be found. Flea markets and garage sales offer matches that are reasonably priced. Older matches can often be found in antique shops, though prices tend to be higher. Ask friends, co-workers and relatives to be on the lookout for matches. Join clubs, attend conventions and swap meets and participate in mail-in auctions. Establish friendships with other collectors and trade by mail. Some great covers can be found through trading.

As in all hobbies, buyer beware. Stained or torn covers have no value. Be certain to remove the staple to prevent rust stain. Also remove matches to prevent colored heads from “bleeding” into the paper cover.

Store matchcovers in an airtight container or display them in a pocketed album. This ensures the covers are protected from dust and dirt. As with all paper collectibles, check for signs of insect invasion at least three times a year. If insects are found, treat with chemical spray.

Matchcover collecting can be a most interesting hobby. A great deal of pleasure is derived from finding a rare collectible cover. Enjoy.