Preserving the Legacy: Protecting Your GA Numismatic Association Postal Cover

Understanding the Value of Postal Covers

As a seasoned collector, I’ve witnessed countless treasures ruined by improper care. The GA Numismatic Association postal cover isn’t just paper—it’s a tangible piece of numismatic history that deserves meticulous preservation for future generations.

The Historical Significance

This cover, featuring the iconic flying eagle and Indian cent design stamp, captures a pivotal moment in numismatic history. Postal covers with special show cancels like this one were produced in large numbers between 1970-1999, creating a rich collecting field for enthusiasts. The unique ink stamp cancel with the flying eagle design adds significant collectible value beyond the standard postal cover.

Common Preservation Threats

Toning and Oxidation

Paper, like coins, is susceptible to toning and oxidation. The natural aging process can create beautiful patinas, but excessive exposure to light, humidity, and pollutants can cause irreversible damage. The paper fibers break down over time, leading to brittleness and discoloration that diminishes both aesthetic and monetary value.

PVC Damage

Many collectors unknowingly store their covers in PVC-containing holders or pages. Polyvinyl chloride releases harmful gases that can cause the paper to become sticky, discolored, and ultimately destroyed. The damage is often irreversible once it begins, making prevention crucial.

Proper Storage Solutions

Archival-Quality Holders

The foundation of preservation begins with proper storage materials. Use acid-free, lignin-free archival folders or sleeves specifically designed for paper collectibles. These materials are buffered to neutralize acids and prevent the chemical reactions that cause deterioration.

Temperature and Humidity Control

Store your covers in a climate-controlled environment with temperatures between 65-70°F and relative humidity around 45-55%. Avoid attics, basements, and areas near heating or cooling vents where temperature and humidity fluctuate dramatically.

To Clean or Not to Clean?

The golden rule of conservation: when in doubt, don’t clean it. Unlike coins where some collectors debate cleaning methods, postal covers should never be cleaned with chemicals or water. Surface dirt can sometimes be gently removed with a soft brush, but any attempt at deeper cleaning risks permanent damage to the paper fibers and inks.

Handling Precautions

Always handle covers with clean, dry hands or wear cotton gloves. The natural oils from skin can transfer to the paper, causing staining and accelerating deterioration. Support the entire cover when handling to prevent creasing or tearing.

Display vs. Storage

While it’s tempting to display your GA Numismatic Association cover, prolonged exposure to light—especially UV light—will cause fading and paper degradation. If you choose to display it, use UV-filtering glass or acrylic and limit display time. For long-term preservation, store the cover in archival-quality materials in a dark, stable environment.

Professional Conservation Options

For covers with existing damage or those requiring special handling, consider consulting a professional paper conservator. They can provide services like deacidification, tear repair, and proper mounting techniques that preserve both the physical item and its historical integrity.

Building a Collection Safely

If you’re expanding your collection of postal covers with special cancels, maintain consistent storage practices across your entire collection. Use archival-quality storage boxes, maintain detailed records of acquisition dates and conditions, and regularly inspect your collection for signs of deterioration.

The Future of Your Collection

Proper preservation ensures that your GA Numismatic Association postal cover remains a valuable piece of numismatic history for future collectors. The flying eagle and Indian cent design, combined with the special show cancel, creates a unique artifact that tells the story of American numismatics and postal history.

Conclusion

The GA Numismatic Association postal cover represents more than just a collectible—it’s a piece of history that requires thoughtful preservation. By understanding the threats to paper collectibles and implementing proper storage and handling techniques, you can ensure this fascinating piece of numismatic heritage survives for generations to come. Remember, the best preservation is preventive: store it properly from the beginning, and your cover will maintain its value and historical significance for years to come.

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