scan and put them online?

if they are 50s has their copyright expired? Not sure how long that last in the US now

hmm good question!

make a collage and frame it?

Not sure whether you'd have to be concerned about copyright in that situation.

"As a general rule, for works created after Jan 1, 1978, copyright protection lasts for the life of the author plus an additional 70 years.

For an anonymous work, a pseudonymous work, or a work made for hire, the copyright endures

for a term of 95 years from the year of its first publication or a term of 120 years from the year of its creation,

whichever expires first."

would that have been sorted with the auction?

omg don't throw them away. NO! you can buy one of those multi frames from Pottery Barn and make a collage....

or someone I know for a fact makes these folding screens that you're supposed to put photos into, that would be awesome as a screen

You could make a collage but intersperse it with news clippings of the time...

that might make for an interesting art piece...just an idea.

a toilet lid?