W600 Purchase of a lifetime (for me)! Would you restore?

steve B · #1 03-29-2021, 11:51 AM

They are a tough call.

The current thing in the hobby is against restoration, almost any depending on who you ask.

But these have at least one probable issue that won't be good for the cards long term. The spotting, like on Davis, Leach etc. is probably mold or mildew. It may be dead, but an expert would have to look at it. If it's live, or dormant but could come back with some moisture - Like general humidity- it will spread, slowly, but it will. Maybe even to other items.

I'd think that a professional cleaning* of the surface to remove accumulated "stuff" and addressing the probable mold. (It could just be dirt spatters, since the stains look like water damage. ) would be ok.
I'm not sure I'd go after the stains, to me that's just a bit too far.

*If they were mine I might try it myself, I've done a few things, and would try one if the images are printed. If they're actual photos, I'd leave it to a professional.

Rhotchkiss · #2 03-29-2021, 11:53 AM

Congrats on a great haul. I was following the auction and would love to work a deal on the Plank if you would sell/trade (sent you a PM).

Regarding your question - I would not restore

Luke · #3 03-29-2021, 12:00 PM

I feel the same as Steve. Generally I would not mess with anything, but if you could safely have that mold removed without using any harmful chemicals, and you were fully transparent, that could be a good move.

TobaccoKing4 · #4 03-29-2021, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by steve B

They are a tough call.

The current thing in the hobby is against restoration, almost any depending on who you ask.

But these have at least one probable issue that won't be good for the cards long term. The spotting, like on Davis, Leach etc. is probably mold or mildew. It may be dead, but an expert would have to look at it. If it's live, or dormant but could come back with some moisture - Like general humidity- it will spread, slowly, but it will. Maybe even to other items.

I'd think that a professional cleaning* of the surface to remove accumulated "stuff" and addressing the probable mold. (It could just be dirt spatters, since the stains look like water damage. ) would be ok.
I'm not sure I'd go after the stains, to me that's just a bit too far.

*If they were mine I might try it myself, I've done a few things, and would try one if the images are printed. If they're actual photos, I'd leave it to a professional.

I handled the cards with gloves and they are all 100% dry, but I personally agree that addressing the potential mold growth is a must for them which I consider completely separate from removing the staining. I don't think there should be any negative view toward making sure rare items like these don't waste away.

Al C.risafulli · #5 03-29-2021, 12:00 PM

Beautiful cards, great pickup!

I'd leave them exactly as is, unless the dirt is causing continuing damage to the cards, in which case I'd have them cleaned by a professional with water.

-Al

Exhibitman · #6 03-29-2021, 12:06 PM

A qualified paper restorer (not a hack like some out there who just use whatever harsh chemicals they can find in the cupboard) uses water and buffering agents and should be able to clean and de-acidify the cards to make them stable. Definitely worthwhile.

Leon · #7 03-29-2021, 12:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TobaccoKing4

I handled the cards with gloves and they are all 100% dry, but I personally agree that addressing the potential mold growth is a must for them which I consider completely separate from removing the staining. I don't think there should be any negative view toward making sure rare items like these don't waste away.

I agree too. Stabilizing is most important And for me, I would probably try a Q tip and water but that is about it...just to get off any loose dirt or grime that you can. I was watching them too.. Good luck!

.

packs · #8 03-29-2021, 12:55 PM

I wouldn't touch them. Even if restoration is possible I'm sure it will leave some sign of it like when people think to have coins polished. It never looks quite right and a lot of people would have preferred the original state.

steve B · #9 03-29-2021, 01:04 PM

There's a big difference between what some people do and what's done professionally.

Polishing coins is bad, as abrasives leave loads of tiny scratches.
But the vast majority of shiny uncirculated silver coins have been cleaned with non abrasive cleaners. Otherwise, they would usually be badly tarnished.

Removing surface filth is typical for most stuff, especially if it will damage whatever it is.

packs · #10 03-29-2021, 01:58 PM

I'm sure a professional could do something for them but I just wanted to caution because you won't know what you've got till it's done. When it comes to art there are a ton of pieces that have been "restored" over time (like the Last Supper) that now have more restored paint than original paint left.

#11 03-29-2021, 02:05 PM

I agree with others to keep them as original as possible, as with anything vintage, but removing the mold will definitely be necessary. Those black spots are definitely mold/mildew and while it looks dormant it is very much alive. If not treated it will continue to get worse and eventually overtake the entire card area. I had a vintage title to an antique car I have and in the course of two years it completely covered the document rendering it worthless. I had made a copy of course but the original was lost forever. I would also have a professional do it. There are several good ones out there.

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