Hello,

My name is Jay Morgan. I'm a sports fan, memorabilia collector and run the ebay store Sports Cases Direct. Over the years I've seen it all, so I know the importantance of protecting your memorabilia. It does not matter if you collect trading cards, beanie babies, stamps, coins, magazines or sports memorabilia, if you want the memories to last you need "protection for your collection".

Dust, time and UV light can fade and discolor your sports memorabilia & collectibles.

Dust in homes and offices, is mainly generated by the inhabitants (especially domesticated pets such as dogs, cats and birds), and mainly from their skin cells that fall off. So if your collection or memorabilia is handled alot just to "Show", your loading it up with skin cells and oil from your skin, along with dust. Also, "Dust bunnies" are little clumps of fluff that form when sufficient dust accumulates.

Small Dust bunnies are on all surfaces and even suspended in air.

Dust completely CRUDS UP YOUR COLLECTION!

As far as UV light goes, Many polymers and inks used in pens or sharpies are degraded by UV light. The protection of a display case with UV stabilizers will inhibit attack. In addition, if your collection is extremely valuable, many pigments and dyes absorb UV and change colour, so paintings, trading cards, or memorabilia with autographs may need extra protection both from dust, sunlight, home lights and even fluorescent lamps.

Should you choose a display case for 100% UV and dust protection.? (Sometimes referred to as a "Museum Quality" display case)

I often explain it this way: All acrylic/glass have an inherent amount of UV "protection". It takes place during the manufacturing process. However, Museum Quality display cases go through an additional manufacturing and coating process.

Since the additional process needed for Museum Quality, the display cases typically cost more, about $35-$150 depending on the piece being displayed.

For example, a baseball display case with Museum Quality protection may cost an additional $35-$40 or more, and the jersey display case would be at the high end at $100-$150 extra.

Don't be fooled by an ad that states a 100% UV Protection for the same price as a Standard Display Case! I see this all the time on ebay, web sites and other auction markets. It drives me crazy!

In summary, I would say for the avid fan, and collector that a "Standard" acrylic or glass case has a sufficient amount of protectors to inhibit damage from time, dust and UV light for many, many years.