posted 01-10-2005 06:13 PM
The signatures on the Declaration of Independence still exist, and they are 200+ years old (though it was not printed on paper, but rather engrossed with iron gall ink on parchment, and for at least the past 50 years has been preserved using the best technology available).My understanding is that modern newspaper print has a projected lifespan of 90 to 100 years, if well protected. Others may know better.
Photographic prints have a longer lifespan but the real question here is the ink applied to them. The National Archives provides instructions for storing photographic prints for archival purposes, which are likely the best for autographs as well.
I wouldn't rely on beta cloths to offer a long lasting solution as both the ink used to silkscreen the emblem and the ink from the signature are subject to fading and aging.
Signatures in pencil (lead or charcoal) are said to be far better suited for long term storage and display.
The simple reality is that autographs are not a good collectible if your top priority is an item that will last the test of time. Of course, some suggest that the true meaning and value of an autograph dies with the recipient, so maybe its just as well...
[This message has been edited by Robert Pearlman (edited January 10, 2005).]
posted 01-10-2005 05:32 PM
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