Expertizing >

Certificates of Unrivaled Authority

The main activity of The Philatelic Foundation is examining and certifying stamps, covers and other philatelic material submitted by collectors, dealers and auctioneers world-wide. Hundreds of thousands of certificates have been issued since 1945.

Auction buyers, retail customers and dealers are used to saying, "I'll have to send it to the Foundation for a certificate." And no wonder! Our volunteer consultants, our curatorial staff and our Chairman of the Expert Committee combine for a depth of knowledge and experience unparalleled in the world of philately. Our reference collections, technical resources and research files are without peer.

For a few words about expertizing, please read the late Herbert Bloch's comments, and, if you want to learn more, or take advantage of our expertizing services, please explore the links below.

Expertizing Services (click a link below)

Why Expertize?

Application Form Download the FREE Adobe Acrobat reader

Multiple item application form

Tips for Applying

The Process

Grading Overview

Grading Booklet (This file will take about 2 minutes to download)

Expertizing Terms

Terms for Covers