Valentine’s Day is usually about love, hearts, and sweet messages. But in the past, some people had a different idea of what made a good card. Vintage Valentine’s Day cards from decades ago sometimes featured insults, mean jokes, or even bad wishes for the recipient. These cards are now seen as both awful and hilarious.
Back in the early 1900s, it was common for people to send “vinegar valentines.” These weren’t kind or romantic. Instead, they made fun of the person receiving them. The cards often had sharp words paired with silly or exaggerated drawings. Some mocked someone’s looks, while others poked fun at their habits or personality.
The artwork on these cards added to the humor. Many featured cartoonish characters with exaggerated features. A man might be drawn with an oversized nose, or a woman with wild hair. The designs matched the tone of the words, making the insult feel more playful but still harsh.
People sent these cards for different reasons. Sometimes, they were meant as jokes between friends who didn’t take offense. Other times, they were used to express real frustration or dislike. Sending a vinegar valentine was an easy way to tell someone you weren’t interested without saying it directly.
