Pf/Pse Expertization Question

I was looking at PF and PSE fees and wanted to be sure I understood them. This is for a post 1932 stamps valued at $180.

PF wants $27 min plus $20 min shipping and handling.

PSE wants $10 min for a modern (post 1932 stamp) and includes grading (cannot get it without) but it is not slabbed. P&H is $28.75

If you want it ungraded, you have the "regular" (covers US to 1 date) option which is $30 min and then $28.75 for handling.

An additional question might be: why support PSE, the originator of the grading craze. What about APEX?

In my opinion and experience, the market does not like APEX certificates.

If you are getting something expertized for your own collection and have no plan to dispose of the item within the foreseeable future, then APEX is certainly viable and the cheapest mainstream expertization option out there. I have several items that I got APEX certed as part of a StampStore purchase; for that it is a great bargain.

If, however, you plan to sell, I would avoid anything not PF or PSE (ideally the former) for U.S. material.

If both cases it may be better to wait (unless a time sensitive purchase) and send more than one item for a certificate. The shipping and handling should be the same. If you live in the NYC area you could pickup and avoid the shipping charge. I agree the handling costs are a problem, but to protect themselves both services use either registered mail or FEDEX, both of which are expensive. Minimum registered mail fee for $180.00 is $14.55.

"I would avoid anything not PF.......for U.S. material." So I'm out of the game. I've had a couple US items expertized over the years. The vast majority of my certs are for non-US material.

Angore - I just sent you a private email message. I can help you submit this if you like.

Matt