Please note that Historical Research LLC owned by Paul McDaniel is
closed. We are not affiliated with them in any way and we can not issue
replacement certificates for them.
What we authenticate:
- Soviet orders and medals, as well as documented
personal groups of awards. We also authenticate some serial numbered
awards, issued by Soviet republics.
What we do not authenticate:
- Anything, that's not listed above.
What you will receive:
- We will photograph your item and provide a detailed
description. Each Certificate of Authenticity is signed by us and
laminated.
Our COAs have unique serial numbers, and copies will be kept in our
permanent record. Since grading is subjective, we do not use any
grading
system, but we will describe any damage, wear, etc. We do not use a
rarity system.
Sample COA
How much does it cost:
- $150 per COA for an item, having a serial
number;
- $50
per authentication if you do not require a COA, or for
non-serial numbered items
(basically we will send you
an e-mail and/or a letter telling you if the item is good or not);
- Fake detection is FREE. We will send you an e-mail stating that
the item is a forgery.
- $50 for a letter on our letterhead with a brief description of a
fake. We will
not provide
detailed description of fakes.
- Authentications of documented personal groups of awards will be
priced on a case by case basis;
- We will offer a 10% discount for 10 or more items sent for
authentication;
- Duplicate COAs can be ordered at a price of $10 each plus postage.
How much is the postage:
- Postage in the US and Canada is $30 - we ship only by
registered
mail with full insurance. Postage to other countries is $40 for
Express Mail. For items, requiring postal insurance of $5000 or more we
will charge
actual postage. For our foreign customers we will include a letter,
stating that we are returning items, sent to us for
authentication, and will describe them in the customs declaration as
"medals returned". We will provide tracking numbers for all shipments.
We will not be held responsible for any items lost in the mail or
delayed by the customs.
How long will it take:
- Usually it takes us about a week to study an award and issue a
COA, but in more difficult cases, as well as for larger documented
groups it may take longer. We will not be rushed.
How to make a payment:
- Payments should be made by PayPal after we
receive the items and confirm our initial quote. We can always
negotiate other payment options more convenient for you.
For our mailing address, quotes, and with any questions please e-mail