n172 fading

I recently considered trading for a n172 that I hadn't seen in 3-4 years, having passed on the card at that time. It appeared to me that since then the card had noticeably faded. Therefore I passed on it again.

Since the owner of the card kept it in a safe, I'm wondering if anybody has had this experience with n172s, and if some cards are more prone to fading than others. If this is the case, I'd be interested in hearing reasons why.

Thanks,
Pete

How can it be that there is noticable fading in a few years, on a 100+ year old card?

It may be the observer, I'll admit. Maybe my standards for what's acceptable contrast has risen over that time.

I also have found that to be a curious thing with OJs. Is it possible that the cards hold the image better when the chemicals are fresh?

Lee

Maybe more albumen was sloshed over the ones that hold their contrast better.

Funny, but maybe the opposite. Albumin is warter soluble, so a wild eyed stab in the dark by a pseudo-scientist may include scenarios of moisture causing fading. But you won't get me saying anything like that.