Appraisal Help and FAQs
Before you buy
Which appraisal do I need?
One stamp: the Single Stamp Appraisal, $4.99, delivered within 3 business days. A collection that fits in 20 photos: the Stamp Collection Appraisal, $49.99, delivered within 5 business days. More than 20 photos: the Unlimited Collection Appraisal, $149.99, no photo limit, delivered within 10 business days after your 14-day upload window. More than 10 single stamps? The $49.99 collection appraisal is the better value.
Do I have to mail you my stamps?
No. Every appraisal is done from photos you send us after you buy. A phone camera is fine, and most of the photos we receive are taken on a phone.
What should I photograph?
For a single stamp, one photo of the front and one of the back. For a collection, photograph the outside of each album, box or stock book, then each page that has stamps on it, plus close-ups of anything that looks old or unusual. Use good light and do not remove stamps from albums or envelopes.
Will you buy my collection?
We require a formal appraisal before we buy any stamps or make a purchase offer. Whether the report carries an offer depends on the material and on what we need in stock at the time, so buying an appraisal does not guarantee an offer. When we do buy, you are paid by bank wire.
What do I get in the report?
The single stamp appraisal identifies the stamp by Scott catalogue number and gives a condition analysis, centering grade, catalogue value and estimated retail value. The collection appraisals give the overall condition, an estimated wholesale value and an estimated retail value. The Unlimited Collection Appraisal also lists the key stamps individually and values bulk material by lot.
Who does the appraising?
West Coast Stamp Company has been a stamp dealer since 1989 and is a member dealer of the American Philatelic Society, member number 224675.
Can I cancel?
Yes, while the order is still pending. Email support@westcoaststamps.com. Because this is a service, refunds are not available once your appraisal has been emailed to you.
After you buy
How do I send my photos?
Right after you order, we email you a link. For the Single Stamp and Stamp Collection appraisals, that link takes you to an upload form. For the Unlimited Collection Appraisal, follow the steps on how to send photos for your Unlimited Collection Appraisal. If you cannot find the email, check your spam folder or send us a message below with your order number.
How do I know you received my photos?
Your written appraisal arrives within the delivery time for your appraisal once we have your photos. If you have not heard from us by then, send us a message below with your order number and we will check.
Can I add more photos later?
For the Unlimited Collection Appraisal, yes, any time during your 14-day upload window. For the other appraisals, each order covers the photos you submit, so additional photos need a new appraisal.
What happens if I want to sell after the appraisal?
If your report includes a purchase offer, it explains how to accept. You can read more about selling your stamp collection to us.
Still have a question?
Send us a message and we will reply by email. You can also write to support@westcoaststamps.com.