Opinions Wanted Duck stamps print

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Framar

Framar

WOW Framer
Joined
Jul 24, 2001
Posts
26,420
Loc
Buffalo, New York, USA/Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada
Customer brings in really tatty old frame with 1980 duck stamp print and stamp. Glass has been broken and a section had been missing for some time so part of mat and matching area on print are discolored, waterstained, some foxing, tidelines, etc.

Since the thing was framed in the eighties, I was amazed to see 1-ply rag under the brown corrugated and amazingly, the stamp itself was encapsulated (probably original stamp store envelope) and in mint condition.

I just looked up the potential value of the print - I found a place selling it for $750 for a s/n print (which this one is).

I am assuming in its present condition it is valueless so I plan on suggesting a conservator could bring this back to life. Seems like a simple washing/bleaching/stabilizing would do the trick.

But is it even worth suggesting for a small print with this kind of value? My customer is a wheeler/dealer, so he likes a lot of bang for his buck (or should I say duck?).

Just musing here - would you reframe it as is or call in the conservator?
 
As we know, what something will sell for retail and it's actual value can be completely different. I think it's up to the client on this one.
Is there sentimental value? How much do they want to spend? How rare is this print?
It might cost as much to restore the print as it's wholesale value on the market.
The stamp in mint condition may have as much value as the print.
I guess you could get an estimate on restoration of the print and just give the client the options and let them decide.
If they decide to just reframe as is, have them sign off on the existing damage.
:popc:
 
I scanned the damage front and back and plan on sending it to my local conservator. At east she can give me a ballpark to give the customer - his original idea was for me to just cut a new mat and refit it into his frame with new glass and backing. I did not realize there was such a big stain on it.

From my research, the stamps themselves are worth only a fraction of the prints.

Funny, in all these years, at least round these parts, duck stamps are as rare as Kincades.

Thankfully!!!
 
It seems that many years ago I did some duck stamps, but I haven't done any for at least 10 years.
I remember the duck stamp discussion in the movie "Fargo" when the police chief's husband won the small cent award and how they needed the "little ones" for when they raise the price of a stamp.
 
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