The result is alarming: subjective conclusions, assumptions presented as facts, and expert opinions that do not meet international standards. This undermines trust in Bulgarian philatelic publications and harms collectors, traders, and institutions.
1. Subjectivity as a systemic problem
Lack of standards and methodology
Unlike leading expert institutions such as RPSL, BPA or BPP, there is no established protocol for expertise in Bulgaria. This means that different experts use different criteria, leading to contradictory conclusions even for the same specimens.
Over-reliance on visual judgment
Instead of measurements, spectral analysis, comparison with archival samples or scientific methods, only “eye” and personal experience are often used. This approach can be useful for preliminary evaluation, but is completely inadequate for rare, expensive or frequently counterfeited brands.
2. Incompetent assessments and their harm to Bulgarian philately
Without naming specific names, it must be clearly emphasized: some of the self-proclaimed "experts" do not have the necessary competence, specialization, or methodological training.
They often:
- do not use scientific methods such as comparative analysis, chemical tests, or digital processing
- they are unaware of modern techniques for detecting counterfeits
- have excessive self-confidence and personal ambition for greatness
As a result, certificates are issued that:
- contain false statements
- contradict international standards
- create chaos in the market
- allow counterfeits to circulate as "originals"
This causes direct and long-term harm to Bulgarian philately because:
- decreases trust in Bulgarian brands
- repels international collectors
- lowers the prices of authentic copies
- compromises auction houses and traders
- creates distrust among collectors
3. Need for reform and professionalization
Creation of a single national standard
The Bulgarian philatelic community needs:
- expert report
- mandatory scientific methods
- central archive of counterfeits
- reference image database
- clear criteria for competence
4. Financial incentives and personal ambitions as a factor in erroneous expert assessments
In addition to the lack of standards and competence, there is another, often overlooked problem: erroneous expert assessments are sometimes issued under the influence of financial interest or a desire for personal expression.
Financial incentives
In some cases, expert opinions are issued:
- to satisfy a customer who pays well
- to "legitimize" a brand with high market value
- to facilitate the sale of a questionable specimen
This constitutes a conflict of interest and is incompatible with professional ethics.
Desire for personal expression
Sometimes experts strive to:
- attract attention through "bold" conclusions
- position themselves as authorities in a field in which they lack sufficient training
- demonstrate a "unique opinion" different from international standards
This type of behavior leads to subjective, and sometimes downright erroneous, assessments that harm not only specific collectors, but also the entire philatelic community.
International cooperation
Partnerships with RPSL, BPA, BPP and APS would increase the quality and trust in Bulgarian expertise.
Bulgarian philately has a rich heritage that deserves respect, a scientific approach and professional protection. But this heritage turns out to be vulnerable when expert assessments are replaced by subjective opinions, assumptions or personal ambitions. Particularly harmful is the practice of giving “expert” conclusions on social networks – most often in Facebook groups.
These hasty and often incompetent assessments create confusion, undermine confidence in the market, encourage the spread of counterfeits, and harm both collectors and the reputation of Bulgarian philately as a whole.
To overcome this problem, professionalization, standardization, and the rejection of practices that replace science with improvisation are necessary. Only through transparency, methodological rigor, and respect for the facts can we ensure that Bulgarian postage stamps will be evaluated fairly, competently, and in accordance with international standards — as they deserve.