Laminating maps?

[Avatard]

I was just curious about what ya'll thought about laminating map inserts. I have some FF1 and FF6 maps that I laminated because when you fold and unfold 'em 100 times they just fall apart. If I were to sell a "complete set" but the maps were laminated would ya be pissed?

I'm still gonna do it, but I was just wondering.

[Nuadha]

I would only be pissed if you did not warn me that the maps had been laminated. I would consider them to be damaged since they do not fold up nicely to be placed back in the box anymore, however since I do not worry about the mintiness of the games I buy (and buy most un-boxed), I wouldn't sweat it at all.

[captain nintendo]

When you sell something as complete you should probably make note of this change.

Make sure it is make perfectly clear of this. Its probably the best way to cover your ass.

[poe]

I agree with the above posters that you should absolutely mention that the maps are laminated. Speaking as someone who has worn out maps due to repeat handling however, I'd say that a laminated map would actually add value to the package for some people, rather than take any away.

[Daria]

I wouldn't buy the set if it no longer fit in the box.

[captain nintendo]

I wouldn't buy the set if it no longer fit in the box.

Agreed.

Also , I want it all to be original. Of course I wouldnt have a problaem with a really good copy of the map laminated to go along with the originals ;)

[lendelin]

Laminated maps should certainly be mentioned since some collectors refuse to buy them. They are well protected, but they are not in their original state anymore. It is about the irrational feeling of authenticity.

My Final Fantasy (NES) maps are in a binder from day one on. I put them in plastic sheet protectors. This way they are well protected, and in their original condition. I have opened them prolly three times in the last 14 years since the FF guide of NP gives you all the necessary maps. I do the same with all other maps for RPGs if the space in the original cardboard box is a bit tight.

[lendelin]

I agree with the above posters that you should absolutely mention that the maps are laminated. Speaking as someone who has worn out maps due to repeat handling however, I'd say that a laminated map would actually add value to the package for some people, rather than take any away.

I agree that some players and collectors don't care. Laminating maps is certainly a great ptrotection and practical; but collectors aren't very rational about the love of past games. :) Laminating doesn't add to the value, as a rule it decreases the value. As soon as the original state of an item is severely altered, it's not 'authentic' anymore. Same goes for movie posters or older advertisements.

[o2william]

I'll echo what everybody else has said: laminating decreases collectible value for most people. I've seen eBay auctions of RPGs with laminated maps go for a lot less than what they would have if the maps were not laminated. Ironic, since the sellers usually thought lamination would increase the value.

That said, it IS a cool way to preserve maps you don't plan to sell, especially if you use them a lot. I bought my copy of NES Dragon Warrior III used, and the map was literally falling apart along the folds. I took it to Kinko's, got it laminated, and now it's useable again. If I hadn't laminated it, it would have just fallen apart.

[Daria]

If you have a map you plan on using a lot I'd either take lendelin's advice and stick it in a binder (although aren't most maps too big for that? o.O) Or make a photo copy for use and leave the original in the box.

[tholly]

personally, i wouldnt buy them ... just because they are "damaged" ( i know they are protected, but they can not be reverted to how they were originally, so they are "damaged" )


....it is a good idea if you are just a player, but collectors would not want something like that unless they already had an unaltered version

[Avatard]

I'd never think it would add value. Its not like laminating costs much.

I used my FF book more than the maps also, and boy you should see that book, every page is torn out and in a folder.

[XJR15]

Maybe instead of laminating them.. you could put them into a nice picture frame. Or, maybe you could build a frame for them. Framing it to me, is the best option. If you can't afford the glass, plastic would do.

But since when do I know anything.