As a very general rule you will tend to find that larger organizations will put more value in certs. Many times the hiring and organizational processes makes it harder for them to properly define and value bona-fide talent.

As a very general rule smaller organizations will not value certifications, and in some cases may look at a person with many certs and little real experience in a negative manner. For these groups having a strong resume of real-world problem solving, and being able to discuss this in detail will be most valuable.

So, IMO, it depends somewhat on what career path you want. If your goal is to stick with government type jobs, then you may be able to turn those little pieces of paper into actual cash. If you're reading and posting here because you desire work in a startup environment your time is probably best spent more hands-on.