Plate Block Stamp Collecting

The Allure of Plate Block Stamp Collecting

In the world of stamp collecting, the plate block is the creme de la creme. Plate blocks are stamps which are printed on one sheet with a printing plate number in the margin. Plate block stamp collecting is often a more expensive pursuit than individual stamp collecting. There are many benefits of collecting plate blocks. One is that the stamps retain the original postage value yet are valued as premium by every major catalog. This means that they don't actually cost more per stamp than an individual stamp but almost always end up being worth more.

Some stamp collectors invest in plate blocks while others simply collect them. There are certainly differences between the two. Investing is done with the goal of choosing plate blocks that are anticipated to increase in value, while collecting is often done with the goal of amassing any and all plate blocks regardless of investment value. Some hobbyist collectors choose stamps that they like the look of and don't worry with whether or not the stamps will be worth anything. There have been several examples of plate blocks that have appreciated in value a great deal.

For example, take a look at the case of Scott No. 834, which is a $5 Calvin Coolidge. The plate block of four was originally priced at $20. Today, this plate block is valued at $400 which is an outstanding appreciation of value. Imagine if you had invested in a large number of these particular plate blocks. It is difficult to know which stamps are going to be worth a lot and which are not. Many collectors just work to fill their albums with as many different stamps as possible. In doing so, they sometimes manage to obtain items that end up being worth a pretty penny.

If you want to learn more about plate block collecting, there are a variety of helpful resources out there. The Internet is a great resource for any stamp collector. There are websites, groups and even software programs which can help you learn more about philately. You can also check out some books on the subject. One good title is Plate Blocks: The Stamp Collector's Edge by Richard L. Lazorow. Your local post office can also help you learn more about the pursuit of individual stamp and plate block collecting.

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McCoy purchased the coins shortly after Miller's death as a way to remember his friend, who shared the same passion for coin and stamp collecting.

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