The Expert Committee

Recognising the need of member and non-member collectors and dealers to have expert opinions confirming stamp descriptions, the RPSV set up an Expert Committee in 1949 that has been in continuous operation since.

Expert Committee

Expertising is the process where experienced collectors assess and give their opinion regarding the accuracy of assessments of stamps, stationery and postal history items. This results in a certificate recording the outcome of that assessment.
Charges for numbered and signed certificates, each bearing an image of the item, are currently $100 per certificate.

RPSV members are entitled to one free certificate per financial year. Indicate on the Application for Certificate that you are an RPSV member, and that this is a request for your free certificate.

How to Make a Submission

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Fill out an application form

The application form that should accompany all submissions is available and should be read thoroughly and completed before making a submission.



Charges for numbered and signed certificates, each bearing an image of the item, are currently $100 per certificate. Members can submit one item per Financial year without charge.

Download Form
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Send your items to the committee via Registered Mail
It is recommended that items be sent to the Committee by Registered Mail. Postage costs in both directions are the responsibility of the submitter.
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What if my item is deemed not worthy of a certificate?
On occasion the Committee may decide that the item does not justify a certificate, in which case a handling fee of $70 is charged. The Committee reserves the right to decide where certificates are issued. Wherever possible the submitter is contacted/advised about any decision not to issue a certificate.

RPSV Service

Recognising the need of member and non-member collectors and dealers to have expert opinions confirming stamp descriptions, the RPSV set up an Expert Committee in 1949 that has been in continuous operation since. The Committee is formed of several members of the RPSV who draw support where necessary from external experts in specific areas.

Postage and revenue stamp, postal history and postal stationary of:

  • Australia: Colonies, States and Commonwealth
  • New Zealand
  • British Pacific Islands

can all be assessed. If in doubt please contact the Secretary of the Committee.

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