I displayed my signed 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan rookie card on my office wall for three years. It wasn’t in direct sunlight, but the ambient UV exposure turned the bold blue ink into a faint, ghostly gray. I tried to sell it, and the grade dropped from a “10 Auto” to a “4.” I lost about $15,000 in value. I called my insurer to claim “Damage,” and they laughed (politely).
Key Takeaways
- Gradual Deterioration Exclusion: Insurance covers “sudden and accidental” loss (fire, theft, drop). It specifically excludes damage that happens slowly over time (fading, rust, rot).
- UV is the Enemy: Even “UV Resistant” glass only blocks 99% of rays. Over 3 years, that 1% destroys ink.
- LEDs Matter: Even modern indoor LED lighting can emit UV spectrums that fade autographs.
- No Payout: There is virtually no insurance policy in existence that covers light fading. It is considered “wear and tear” or “inherent vice.”
The “Why” (The Maintenance Clause)
“We do not insure for loss caused by… smog, rust or other corrosion, mold, wet or dry rot, or light.”
Insurers view this as your failure to preserve the asset, not an accident.
The Investigation: Is there any loophole?
I talked to specialist adjusters.
1. The “Sudden” Argument
- Attempt: I tried to argue that a specific event (like a window breaking and letting sun in for a week) caused it.
- Rebuttal: Adjusters know ink chemistry. Fading takes months. Denial stands.
2. The Preservation Specialist
- Advice: Museum glass (Tru Vue) is mandatory, but even museums rotate items. 3 months on display, 9 months in the dark vault.
3. Digitized Displays
- Solution: In 2026, high-end collectors use 4K digital frames to display scans of the card, while the real card sits in a dark safe.
Comparison Table
| Damage Type | Cause | Covered? |
| Fading | Sunlight / UV | NO (Gradual) |
| Water Stain | Pipe Burst | YES (Sudden) |
| Warping | Humidity | NO (Usually) |
| Fire Damage | Heat | YES |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Get it out of the Light: If you have autos on the wall, take them down today.
- Use Museum Glass: If you must display, ensure the slab or frame uses UV-filtering glass. PSA slabs are NOT UV proof.
- Rotate Your Collection: Treat your home like a museum. Rotate displayed items every quarter.
FAQ
Can I restore the autograph?
“Restoration” (retracing) makes the card “Altered” and destroys the value even more. Do not do it.
[IMAGE: Split image showing a vibrant autograph vs a faded one of the same card]