When cased, tintypes resemble ambrotypes on cursory inspection. The normally rather obvious differences in the three types are often obscured by deterioration and by original process variations. Unlike paper photographs, however, these three types did not fade.

How do you preserve tintypes?

A tintype may be stored in an acid-free paper folder or envelope, or wrapped in acid-free tissue and placed in a storage box. Its best to keep it lying flat. For display, the tintype should be supported evenly on a mount or lie flat.

How much are Ambrotypes worth?

Ambrotypes typically feature a portrait of a little girl with rosy colored cheeks or an image of an Union soldier in a blue uniform. Collectors typically will pay between $35 to $350 for a good quality antique tintype in good condition.

How can you tell an ambrotype from a daguerreotype?

In fact, this main difference is also the most reliable way to tell ambrotypes and daguerreotypes apart: daguerreotypes are backed by shiny silver, while ambrotypes are backed by a piece of glass painted black. The daguerreotype appears to be on a mirror, so when viewing it at an angle the dark areas are silver.

How do you store Ambrotypes?

Ambrotypes in good condition are best stored in an acid-free four-flap enclosure or, if cased, wrapped in acid-free tissue inside a folding box to prevent breakage and abrasion. Ambrotypes with flaking emulsion layers should be stored flat.

Can old tintypes be restored?

There is no negative in the tintype process, making each one a rare, one-of-a-kind photograph. Tintypes are valuable capsules of history and should only be directly worked on by an archival specialist. Today virtually all tintype images needing restoration are restored digitally on the computer.

How do you know if youre a daguerreotype?

Daguerreotypes always come in protective cases, often made of leather and lined with silk or velvet. They were made on highly polished silver plates. Depending on the angle at which you view them, they can look like a negative, a positive or a mirror. If exposed to the air, the silver plate will tarnish.

Are daguerreotypes still made today?

Does anyone still make daguerreotypes today? Yes, though its a complex and potentially toxic process.