+1
I realize you want maximun protection for minimum dollars, but it's hard to help when it seems you aren't even seriously considering our advice. As mentioned in the other thread, I have actually framed one of these 55x78 monsters before and you really can't cheap your way out of it. It sounds like you are looking at about $300 framed with no UV or acid protection. I framed up mine with conservation plexiglas and acid free backing for about $500. These are literally bottom of the barrel prices for something this size and you should be happy you have these options available.
I would suggest you take your poster to a few frame shops and see what sort of qoutes you get. I would be shocked if anyone comes in under a $1000.
On the contrary I have been considering people's advice. I've just been a little frustrated that people don't seem to be getting what I'm asking regarding the acrylic and if I have to worry about acid from it, but that's a mute point now because I'm going with the best I can find in my area minus the expensive tack on's (like UV and non-glare) which in my situation I genuinely do not need. So here's what I've settled on.
1. Nice decorative Wood Frame Cherry Finish - $140
2. 1/8" inch acrylic - $150
3. Bulk box of 8 x 32x40 Sheets Acid-Free Foam Core Backing - $70 ($8.75 a piece I'll use 3 sheets for $27)
Total $317.00 (plus shipping for the frame and the backing) I can live with that, and I think I'll be extremely pleased with it, moreso than if I went with the Spotlight. Plus, ironically the Spotlight route would have cost me more because I'd have to buy two sheets of acrylic and the $120 metal frame ($420). And doing it myself probably saves me a couple $100 which I imagine is what a framer would charge me using the same materials just to put it together.
So I do thank you all for your help, even though it took going around and around in circles, and people at times not really answering the questions I had. I don't think I could have settled on a better decision for the money in terms of framing this. I'll let you all see what it looks like when completed.