Saving a document

[JerryK]

Hello,
I bought a KIA purple heart citation document and its the letter signed by the President that accompanies it. The letter signed by the President is in pretty bad shape. The bottom corner has almost rotted away and the back of the document has a fine mold or mildew sprinkled over the bottom half. The edges all the way around are badly water stained. Anyone have any idea how to rescue this document. The Purple Heart Citation document was in much better shape. Thanks for any help you can give.
Jerry

[JerryK]

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[Theodor]

In my opinion, unless you are a professional restorer, all you can do is to prevent it from any further damage - put it in a hard cardboard box /I think trying to insert it in a clear folder or pressing among papers would break more parts from it, looks very fragile/. And of course, look for someone who makes living on restoring paper.

[Øyvind]

I always use acid free plastic bags for my rare documents. The bags are very stiff, so the papers will maintain their natural shape. They cost around $2 each here in Norway. Im very happy with them, and have recomended them to severeal other collectors.

Regards
******216;yvind