posted on December 10, 2000 01:27:11 AMActually, 2 questions:
1.) When grading old paper items, specifically old magazines, how does that often typical notch out of the top or bottom of the spine affect the grade? (When I say "notch" I'm refering to the small chunk or tear in the bottom or top of the spine, usually a result of rough handling in the store--not an age wear problem)
2.) How, tell me, how do you get rid of a moth ball smell form old paper items? Is there any trick...or do they just need to be left out in clean air for 20 years?
posted on December 10, 2000 12:36:47 PM
I'd just describe the flaws and let the bidders decide the "grade". Sometimes I give an estimate, like "a 7 out of 10 in condition" or something like that.
On magazines, I usually say "normal cover wear for a magazine of this age" and if there's a bad flaw, describe that in more detail.
It ain't rocket science, but it works for me.
As for the musty smell, I don't know what would help. Most old paper has an odor. Unless it's an extraordinarily pungent smell, I wouldn't worry about it. People who like old magazines, books and paper should be well familiar with the smell and it wouldn't be a problem.
Just my opinion.
[ edited by loosecannon on Dec 10, 2000 12:45 PM ]
posted on December 10, 2000 01:47:04 PM
Whenever I sell magazines etc. I give a complete listing of the contents and a complete description of the flaws, I just make sure I end the description on an upbeat note.
I don't tape tears, I don't try to air it out, I just tell it like it is. I generally don't have any trouble selling them, I've had no complaints so far.
"This magazine has a half inch tear on the bottom of the back cover near the spine. There is an address label on the cover. There is a bit of a musty smell from sitting in a box, but should air out and be OK. There is edgewear all around, but not excessive. There are no loose or torn pages. The binding is tight, the pages are bright."
posted on December 10, 2000 06:13:23 PM
Tape? I'm a little surprised this was even mentioned. Who in the world would put tape on a vintage paper item? To us paper ephemera lovers, tape is a 4 letter word.
I was at the flea market yesterday, and came across a nice batch of old postcards. I had an initial rush of excitement until I discovered that the dealer had stuck price stickers directly to the back of each card (barcoded even, with an logo from a local antique mall). I left very quickly.
As for musty smell, just pop each item into a plastic bag, light a cigarette and exhale into the bag. The cigarette smoke seems to kill the must dead.
