Medals Display Case Question

[Praelus]

Hi all,

I am considering displaying my collection of medals and other metal objects (e.g. Party badges, cap insignia, etc.) in a display case with a glass cover and foam insert, in which the items are held in place by pressure against the glass. However, I am concerned about potentially damaging the items with this setup, either through damage to the fragile pins/prongs from the pressure or damage to the surface of the medals through abrasion from the glass.

Is this a valid concern, or is this method of display safe? Do any of you display your medals or other metal items in this way, or do you reserve it for cloth insignia and the like?

Thank you!



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[11C]

I've used that method for years without a problem. I would suggest that you find some small packs of "humidity controller" if your house is prone to moisture issues. I have a friend in Nebraska who puts small packets behind the foam because he has seen moisture develop in the cases during the hot summer. Unless you are always taking the medals in and out of the case on a regular basis, you won't see any damage in my experience. I display daggers and bullion insignia with no problems as well.

[joelhall]

The only real risk would be if you used woods for the frame, and if the display was exposed to light and moisture could build up. The set up itself wouldn't cause any damage.

[DouglasDwight]

Praelus,

I think you raise very good concerns about damage from the pressure of the foam pushing up against the reverse of badges, and causing damage to sensitive clasps. Sometimes I see dealers or collectors place items in these types of display cases, and have to essentially force the lid closed, and I just cringe!

I use several methods....

For one, go to a local foam manufacturer or wholesaler, and have pieces cut to different thicknesses. Then you can control how many layers of foam that you use, based on what you are displaying. I also always use two pieces of colored felt on top of the foam. The felt also provides some "give," and is much better looking than the foam.

Another method is actually cutting away some of the foam if you have an item that is particularly "thick." I still use the felt on top, to provide a very "finished" looking final display.

The third, and perhaps best method, is...throw out the foam, and use furniture batting that can be bought at your local craft of fabric store. Great stuff. On the one hand, it's very "compressible," but on the other, it provides a nice firm look in the case. Again, I still use two pieces of felt on top of the batting.

Try it, let me know what you think!

[DouglasDwight]

By way of an example...These badges are held firmly in place, but are not "squished" in place. (Batting underlay)

[DouglasDwight]

same scenario...

[DouglasDwight]

Use of thinner layers of foam, so as to moderate the overall thickness. Again, the items are held in place, but not squished in...

[DouglasDwight]

Use of foam, cut out to exact shape and appropriate thickness, to allow for a very "deep" item....

[joelhall]

Very sensible method for preservation, it has to be said. Although for my the look of poly foams isn't very pleasing to the eye, so I made a trade-off. I prefer to mount on off-white museum board, and use an archival framing method, or place the mounted items into a moisture/gas/dust controlled case.
Actually my latest hobby will be the latter for all my iron crosses. The only issue is construction of the case carcass at the moment.

Just curious, as I did email some conservators: is carbon fibre a good material for archival display?