Tri-Cities Communications KONA Radio QSL Card (not authenticated)

This physical item is a vintage paper QSL reception confirmation card issued by Tri-Cities Communications, Inc. for radio stations KONA AM and KONA FM, located in the Tri-Cities, Washington area with a post office box in Kennewick, Washington. The card is printed on bright pink cardstock with black typography and graphic elements. The prominent header reads 'KONA AM 610 FM 105.3 STEREO' alongside company information including the address, phone number, and zip code 99336. The pre-printed text states that the station is 'pleased to confirm your reception of KONA on [handwritten 'August 29, 1978'] at [handwritten '8:37 AM' and '9:05 AM']'. Additional pre-printed technical specifications indicate 'KONA AM = 5,000 WATTS DA-2' and 'KONA FM = 100,000 WATTS ERP'. The card bears handwritten ink entries filling out the specific dates and times, as well as a signature at the bottom identified beneath as 'Chief Engineer - KONA RADIO'. The physical condition appears generally well-preserved with sharp edges and minimal surface wear, though typical minor age-related toning or fading may be present on the paper stock. The identification rests entirely on the legible printed text, branding, and handwritten details visible directly on the face of the artifact, suggesting an unverified piece of broadcast history from the late 1970s.

Based on what I can see in the provided image, this artifact appears to be a vintage paper QSL card from Tri-Cities Communications, Inc., featuring bright pink cardstock and handwritten details corresponding to radio stations KONA AM and FM in Washington state, dated August 29, 1978. I can observe legible typography and a signature attributed to the Chief Engineer, but I cannot verify from a photo alone whether the paper stock, ink, and handwriting are period-correct or contemporary reproductions. Physical inspection would be needed to confirm the paper texture, aging characteristics, and ink composition. The estimated value range of $15 to $30 assumes the identification is correct and reflects typical market demand for 1970s broadcast ephemera and radio station QSL collectibles. General market conditions for items of this niche hobbyist category are modest, as collector interest is typically driven by specific call letters, geographical regions, or station rarity. Should this piece turn out to be a modern reproduction, replica, or copy rather than a period-issued card, the value would drop significantly to a nominal amount under $5. To establish greater certainty regarding authenticity and value, an in-person examination by a paper ephemera specialist or broadcast history expert would be necessary.