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Do Old Pokemon Cards Fade? The Impact of Time and Environment on Your Collection

Yes, old Pokemon cards can and do fade, especially when exposed to sunlight or UV radiation. The inks used in these cards are susceptible to degradation over time, causing a loss of vibrancy and detail. This fading can significantly impact the value and collectibility of your prized cards. Let’s delve deeper into the factors that contribute to fading and how to protect your collection.

Understanding the Science of Fading

Fading is essentially a chemical reaction driven by light energy. The inks used in Pokemon cards, like many other printed materials, contain pigments that absorb specific wavelengths of light, giving them their color. When exposed to UV radiation, the energy breaks the chemical bonds within these pigments. This breakdown alters the way the pigments absorb and reflect light, resulting in a change in color or a complete loss of color, which we perceive as fading.

The intensity and duration of exposure play crucial roles. Direct sunlight is the most potent fading agent due to its high UV content. However, even indirect sunlight and certain artificial light sources (like incandescent bulbs) emit enough UV radiation to cause gradual fading over time.

Factors Contributing to Pokemon Card Fading

Several factors beyond sunlight contribute to the fading process:

Light Exposure: As mentioned, direct and indirect sunlight are primary culprits. Even ambient light in a room can contribute to fading over extended periods.
Humidity: High humidity can accelerate the breakdown of the card’s materials, including the inks. This weakens the card’s resistance to fading. The article mentioned how humidity can affect the card’s structure and may even cause them to mold.
Temperature: Extreme temperatures can also affect the stability of the inks and cardstock, making them more vulnerable to fading.
Card Quality: The quality of the inks and cardstock used in different Pokemon card sets can vary. Some sets may be more resistant to fading than others.
Storage Conditions: Proper storage is paramount. Storing cards in dark, cool, and dry environments significantly reduces the risk of fading.

Protecting Your Pokemon Card Collection

Preventing fading is essential for preserving the value and condition of your Pokemon cards. Here are some practical strategies:

UV-Resistant Sleeves and Binders: Use acid-free, UV-resistant sleeves and binders designed specifically for trading cards. These sleeves provide a protective barrier against UV radiation.
Dark Storage: Store your collection in a dark location, away from direct sunlight and bright artificial lights. Closets, drawers, or storage boxes are ideal.
Climate Control: Maintain a stable temperature and humidity level in your storage area. Dehumidifiers can help control humidity in damp environments.
Display Considerations: If you display your cards, use UV-filtering display cases or frames. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or under bright lights.
Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your collection for any signs of fading or damage. Early detection allows you to take corrective action before the damage becomes irreversible.
Avoid Fluorescent Lights: Use LED instead. They do not emit as much UV lights as fluorescents and do not heat up as much either.

The Impact on Value

Faded Pokemon cards are generally worth less than cards in pristine condition. Collectors prioritize cards with vibrant colors and sharp details. Severe fading can significantly reduce the value of even the rarest and most sought-after cards. Collectors know that 90s cards are the ones to go after because they can reach a profit of seven figures.

The Importance of Grading

Professional card grading services like PSA (Professional Sports Authenticator) and CGC Trading Cards assess the condition of cards, including the presence of fading. A low grade due to fading will negatively impact the card’s value. The same error card pictured above in its CGC Trading Cards holder. Cards should be put in a card holder to help keep its quality.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About Pokemon Card Fading

1. What type of light is most damaging to Pokemon cards?

Direct sunlight is the most damaging due to its high concentration of UV radiation. Even indirect sunlight can cause significant fading over time.

2. Can artificial light fade Pokemon cards?

Yes, certain artificial light sources, such as incandescent bulbs and fluorescent lights, emit UV radiation that can fade Pokemon cards over time. LED lights are a better alternative.

3. How long does it take for a Pokemon card to fade in sunlight?

The rate of fading depends on the intensity of the sunlight and the card’s composition. Significant fading can occur within a few weeks of direct exposure, while indirect exposure may take months or years.

4. Are some Pokemon card sets more prone to fading than others?

Yes, the quality of inks and cardstock varies between sets. Some sets may use more fade-resistant materials than others.

5. Does humidity affect the rate at which Pokemon cards fade?

Yes, high humidity can accelerate the fading process by weakening the card’s materials and making them more susceptible to UV damage. Humidity and high temperatures increase deterioration and invite the growth of mold and mildew, which breaks down the binder layers of the card and potentially mars the surface.

6. Can faded Pokemon cards be restored?

Unfortunately, fading is generally irreversible. While some techniques may improve the card’s appearance, they cannot fully restore the original colors.

7. Are UV-resistant sleeves and binders effective in preventing fading?

Yes, UV-resistant sleeves and binders provide a valuable layer of protection against UV radiation, significantly reducing the risk of fading. Some of the card holder binders work poorly. One of the common problems of every card collector is that sleeves are not tight enough.

8. How should I store my Pokemon cards to prevent fading?

Store your cards in a dark, cool, and dry environment, away from direct sunlight and bright artificial lights. Use UV-resistant sleeves and binders for added protection.

9. What is the best way to display Pokemon cards without causing fading?

Use UV-filtering display cases or frames and avoid placing them in direct sunlight or under bright lights.

10. Can I use a dehumidifier to protect my Pokemon cards from fading?

Yes, a dehumidifier can help maintain a stable humidity level in your storage area, reducing the risk of humidity-related damage, including accelerated fading.

11. Does the grade of a Pokemon card affect its value if it has faded?

Yes, a low grade due to fading will negatively impact the card’s value. Collectors prioritize cards in pristine condition with vibrant colors.

12. How do professional grading services assess fading in Pokemon cards?

Grading services carefully inspect cards for color loss, discoloration, and other signs of fading, which are factored into the overall grade.

13. Are reprinted Pokemon cards as susceptible to fading as original prints?

The susceptibility to fading depends on the materials and printing processes used in the reprint. Some reprints may be more fade-resistant than original prints.

14. What are some other factors that can damage Pokemon cards besides fading?

Other factors include humidity, temperature fluctuations, physical damage (creases, bends, scratches), and improper handling.

15. Where can I learn more about the collectibility and care of trading cards?

You can find valuable resources and community discussions on various trading card forums, collector websites, and organizations like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/. The Games Learning Society is dedicated to the study and advancement of game-based learning, and they offer insights into the cultural and economic aspects of collecting.

Conclusion: Protecting Your Investment

Fading is a real threat to your Pokemon card collection, but with proper care and storage, you can minimize the risk and preserve the value of your cards for years to come. By understanding the factors that contribute to fading and implementing effective protection strategies, you can ensure that your collection remains vibrant and valuable.

Do old Pokemon cards fade?