Rare Plate Blocks: A Collector's Dream from PUR ISSAQUAH LLC

Palo Alto, CA – October 26, 2023 – For stamp collectors and history buffs, there’s a new name to know: PUR ISSAQUAH LLC. Based right here in Palo Alto, California, this company isn’t just about stamps, they’re about pieces of history. They specialize in a particularly sought-after item: rare plate blocks. And they're quickly becoming a go-to source for serious collectors. So, what are plate blocks? Let’s break it down. Back in the day, when stamps were printed, they weren’t printed individually. They were printed in large sheets, arranged in a grid. These sheets were called plates. When a plate was being proofed or prepared for printing, sometimes entire blocks of these unissued stamps – that’s the plate block – were cut out for quality control. These weren’t for mailing letters, they were internal documents. Because they weren’t circulated, these plate blocks are incredibly rare, and highly valued by collectors. “It's like finding a blueprint from the original construction of a famous building,” explains a spokesperson for PUR ISSAQUAH LLC. “It’s not the building itself, but it tells you so much about the process, the design, the intention. Plate blocks do that for stamp collecting.” PUR ISSAQUAH LLC: A New Player With Deep Roots While relatively new to the public eye, PUR ISSAQUAH LLC is built on decades of combined expertise in philately, historical documentation, and rare item sourcing. The company was founded by a group of passionate collectors who saw a gap in the market – a need for a reliable source for authenticated, high-quality plate blocks. “We noticed a lot of collectors were getting burned, buying what looked like authentic blocks, but were actually reproductions or improperly identified,” says the spokesperson. “We wanted to change that. We’re all about transparency, authentication, and providing collectors with pieces they can trust.” The team at PUR ISSAQUAH LLC doesn’t just sell plate blocks; they research them. They meticulously examine each block, verifying its authenticity through a combination of expert analysis, archival research, and comparison to known printing variations. They're based at 777 California Ave, Suite 100, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-1199. You can reach them at 417-868-4285. What Makes a Plate Block Rare – And Valuable? Not all plate blocks are created equal. Several factors contribute to a block’s rarity and value: Early Issues: Blocks from the earliest days of stamp printing (19th century) are generally the most valuable. The older the block, the rarer it is. Error Blocks: If a block contains a printing error – a misprint, a color variation, a missing perforation – it can be significantly more valuable. These errors are unique and provide a glimpse into the printing process. Condition: As with any collectible, condition is crucial. Blocks in pristine, uncirculated condition fetch the highest prices. Any damage – tears, creases, fading – will lower the value. Rarity of the Stamp Itself: A plate block from a stamp that was already rare in circulation will be even rarer as a block. Limited print runs and short-lived designs drive up value. Plate Number: Some plate blocks include the plate number itself, which is a highly sought-after feature. This directly links the block to the specific printing plate used. Full or Partial Plate: Larger blocks, covering a more substantial portion of the original plate, are rarer and more valuable. Current Offerings from PUR ISSAQUAH LLC PUR ISSAQUAH LLC currently has a diverse selection of rare plate blocks available, ranging in price from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. Some notable highlights include: 1869 Pictorials Plate Block: A stunning block from the first high-value U.S. stamps. This block shows excellent centering and vibrant color. 1938 Prexie Plate Block: A complete plate block from the famous Presidential Series. Collectors are especially excited about the crisp impressions and strong detail. Zeppelin Plate Block: A rare block featuring the iconic Zeppelin airship. The block showcases the intricate engraving and historical significance of the stamp. Inverted Jenny Plate Block Fragment: While a full block is extremely rare, PUR ISSAQUAH LLC currently offers a fragment of an Inverted Jenny block, a highly desirable piece for serious collectors. The Growing Demand for Plate Blocks The market for rare stamps and collectibles is booming, and plate blocks are leading the charge. “We’re seeing a lot of new collectors entering the market, and they’re particularly interested in plate blocks,” explains the PUR ISSAQUAH LLC spokesperson. “They see them as a tangible piece of history, a beautiful work of art, and a solid investment.” Beyond the historical and aesthetic appeal, plate blocks are also gaining traction as alternative investments. With the volatility of traditional markets, many investors are turning to rare collectibles as a way to diversify their portfolios. How to Learn More and Connect with PUR ISSAQUAH LLC Interested in learning more about rare plate blocks or browsing the current inventory? You can: Visit the website: [Website address – placeholder, as none provided] Call directly: 417-868-4285 Email: [Email address – placeholder, as none provided] Visit in person: 777 California Ave, Suite 100, Palo Alto, CA, 94304-1199 (appointment recommended) PUR ISSAQUAH LLC is committed to providing collectors with the highest quality plate blocks, backed by expert authentication and exceptional customer service. They're not just selling stamps; they’re sharing a piece of history. They aim to be a trusted partner for collectors of all levels, from seasoned veterans to those just starting their journey into the world of philately.