[Exhibitman]

Returning to the OP, I'd say it really depends on what you plan to do with the item. If you want it encapsulated in a TPA holder, obviously you will need to submit it. If you are happy with it outside a holder, no need to spend the $ on a TPA opinion. Whether the opinion of the TPA is "better" than the opinion of Lelands is speculative at best since it depends on the item, the purpose of the opinion, and the target audience. If you are going to flip the item via Ebay you may need a TPA cert to do it. Personally, I am comfortable with a legitimate AH or seller COA. I have signed items with Hakes COAs on them and Topps Vault COAs on them, and I am perfectly content with them. It is all just opinion; none of it changes the item itself. TPAs are wrong from time to time, as are any other experts giving opinions, so it really boils down to your comfort level. Lelands is reputable and certainly appears to be around for the long haul, so if the Lelands COA is unequivocal and can be passed on to a third party, I see no reason to get a TPA involved unless you want to.