This is a high quality frame and matte. It is not acidic- not supposed to harm the photo. It looks stately and is a perfect match for the US Navy certificate frame but this frame is a little smaller. This gave our son's professional portrait the pizzazz it deserves. I highly recommend it. Yes, it is expensive, but is comparable to competitors' price plus you get free shipping. The frame arrived in tissue paper, wrapped in bubble wrap, inside a box, inside of the shipping box. Arrived in great shape and came with a small level and nails for hanging. If you want to use wire, you'll have to buy that. I highly recommend this frame.