WLW Radio QSL Card (not authenticated)

The item is a printed paper QSL card verifying radio reception, specifically associated with WLW Radio 7. The card measures standard postcard dimensions and features a primarily white background with a prominent red block on the right-hand side. The red section contains bold black typography reading '700 KILOCYCLES', 'WLW RADIO 7', and 'CLEAR CHANNEL', enclosing a distinctive oval graphic. At the top left, there is a small black-and-white photographic image depicting a tall radio tower antenna against a clouded sky. The text on the card includes technical data regarding the broadcast: 'This will verify your reception of WLW on January 12, 1980', 'Power: 50 kw', 'Duplicate Transmitters', 'High-Level High Efficiency', '24 Hours Each Day', and '708 Ft. Vertical Radiator'. Further text lists contact information for the station's chief engineer: 'James D. Hampton, Chief Engineer', 'Suite 700', '3 East Fourth Street', 'Cincinnati, Ohio 45202', and a phone number '513/241-9597'. The card exhibits minor age-related toning and handling wear, consistent with paper ephemera from the late 20th century. The identification of this piece rests on the clearly legible printed station logos, call letters, and technical specifications directly visible on the face of the card, which are characteristic of radio verification memorabilia from this era.

Based on the provided image, I have evaluated this printed paper QSL card associated with WLW Radio 7. The piece displays standard postcard dimensions, a white background with a red block, bold black typography, and technical broadcast data dated January 12, 1980. Based on what I can see in the photograph, the printed logos and text appear consistent with radio verification ephemera from this era, exhibiting minor age-related toning and handling wear. However, I cannot verify the physical paper stock, exact printing process, or overall condition from a digital photograph alone; physical inspection would be needed to assess these aspects fully. The estimated value range of $15 to $30 assumes the printed details correspond to the period indicated. Radio QSL cards generally appeal to niche collectors of vintage broadcast memorabilia and local history ephemera, with typical market demand remaining modest. Because this piece is unauthenticated, the stated value depends heavily upon physical verification. If the item were determined to be a modern reproduction, replica, copy, or facsimile rather than vintage paper ephemera, the value would decrease significantly, likely dropping to nominal or negligible worth. To establish firm authenticity and a more precise valuation, an in-person examination by a paper ephemera specialist or vintage radio memorabilia expert would be required, alongside a thorough inspection of the paper aging and ink characteristics.