Valentine's Gifts Through the Ages

By Sheri & Bob Stritof, About.com Guides

If you search for the history of Valentine's Day, you will find different theories on how this very old holiday for lovers began. Most historians agree that St. Valentine's Day has roots in both ancient Roman traditions and in Christian traditions. While some view these vintage gifts as predictable, cliche, or unimaginative, we think they are sweet and charming.

Regardless of the history of Valentine's Day, lovers have been giving notes, cards, and gifts for centuries. Check out the traditional gifts given on Valentine's Day through the years. We discovered these gifts by looking at ads and articles in old newspapers and magazines.

• 1400s
• 1500s
• 1600s
• 1700s
• 1800s
• 1900s
• 1910s
• 1920s
• 1930s
• 1940s
• 1950s
• 1960s
• 1970s
• 1980s
• 1990s
• 2000s