Or I think it's what you mean. I haven't seen that many from that era that don't have "that smell" but actually it's not that unpleasant.
1st set of plaques have deteriorated and flaked so much because of the formaldehyde I assume and covered lots in the fine dust I've been painstakingly cleaning off every one (just in case) which smells too so hasn't helped. I hope to know more when my sinuses clear sufficiently.
The plaques mostly have that smell but not that bad overall. I'm hoping a good airing will help after being shut in a barn for so long in plastic open boxes. The later ones smell "sweeter" and there seem to be 3 different distinctive(ish) smells on what I assume to be 3 different issues.
A lot of the jetons have that "jeton smell" too but mainly the bubbled red £1s.
Very overpowering when all different types are together but not that bad when in denominations. My eyes, throat and lungs hurt but then I do have flu/cold/chest infection too (before I collected these). Masks and gloves are now in use.
The really good news is that most have not rotted, warped or gone nasty yet after 50 odd years so I think there's plenty of life left in them yet.
I will be checking them everyday to make sure they don't go "salty" or have any other problems again. They shouldn't do. Well, fingers crossed I'm only the custodian. I just want them to go to good, appreciative homes and make myself some profit too.
Anybody expert in the clear nail varnish trick to seal them from the air? I will be suggesting it to any buyers of the plaques in case they have doubts about how long they will last. I expect them to last me, easily.
I was even toying with "slabbing" (I know, you all hate it but needs must) so the warped ones can be saved. Somebody suggested pressing them but, hmmm.
The chips obviously are smell free and just a little "white" on edges mainly. I will clean every one sold before taking a photo (from all angles) so all is good (if any more sell).
Hope this answers your question Jim, probably too much sorry about that.