Autographed Baseball Fading Signature
by Bob
(Atlanta, Ga)
I have an autographed baseball signed by Edgar Martinez... How do I protect the fading signature?
Rob:
Bob, unfortunately this is a common problem, especially if the baseball has been exposed to UV light. The type of pen and ink used, and whether the baseball is an official MLB baseball, or replica is going to make a huge difference.
Usually, signed baseballs work best on official MLB balls with a blue ball point pen. Surprisingly, I have had the worst luck with Sharpies, except for on cheap (almost plastic) ones.
At this point, I would invest in a UV protected glass or acrylic display case to protect the ball from further damage, along with keeping it out of direct sunlight.
See my
sports display cases page for some options.