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

Palo Alto, CA – October 26, 2023 – You know those old stamps your grandma used to collect? Well, forget just the stamps. PUR ISSAQUAH LLC, a company quietly making waves in the philatelic (that's fancy talk for stamp collecting!) world from its base in Palo Alto, California, is focused on something even more rare and sought-after: plate blocks. And they’re not just any plate blocks – they’re seriously rare ones. So, what are plate blocks? Let’s break it down. Back in the day, when stamps were printed, they weren't just printed all willy-nilly. They were printed on large metal plates (hence the “plate” part!). These plates were divided into sections, and when the printing process was done, sometimes, a section – a block of stamps still attached to the plate margin – would be saved. That’s a plate block. Think of it like a limited-edition print – it's not just the artwork itself, it's the piece of the printing process with the artwork. And the rarer the stamp, the rarer (and more valuable!) the plate block. PUR ISSAQUAH LLC isn’t your typical stamp dealer. They’re a boutique operation, focused on sourcing and offering exceptionally high-quality, genuinely rare plate blocks. They’re not trying to sell you a ton of common stamps – they're hunting down the really good stuff. "We’re passionate about the history behind these pieces," explains a representative from PUR ISSAQUAH LLC. “It’s not just about the monetary value, it's about owning a tangible piece of postal history. These blocks tell a story – the story of how stamps were made, the technology of the time, and even a little bit about the people who used them.” What makes PUR ISSAQUAH’s Plate Blocks Special? Okay, so plate blocks are cool. But what sets PUR ISSAQUAH LLC apart? It's a few things: Rarity is Key: They don’t deal in common blocks. They actively seek out plate blocks from stamps that are already considered rare and collectible. This means blocks from limited print runs, stamps with errors (those are especially valuable!), or stamps from historically significant periods. Condition, Condition, Condition: A rare stamp in bad shape isn’t worth much. PUR ISSAQUAH LLC is meticulous about the condition of their blocks. They look for blocks that are well-centered, have vibrant colors, and minimal defects. They're graded according to industry standards. Provenance: This is a fancy word for “history of ownership.” Knowing where a plate block came from – whether it was part of a famous collection, discovered in an estate sale, or sourced from a known collector – adds to its value and authenticity. PUR ISSAQUAH LLC does their homework to verify the provenance of their blocks. Expert Authentication: They don’t just take a seller’s word for it. PUR ISSAQUAH LLC utilizes independent expert authentication services to ensure the authenticity and grading of each plate block. This gives buyers confidence in their purchase. Focus on US Classics: While they may occasionally branch out, PUR ISSAQUAH LLC primarily focuses on rare plate blocks of US stamps – from the early 19th century right up to more recent, but still collectible, issues. Why are Plate Blocks Becoming Popular? Stamp collecting used to be a super popular hobby. It cooled off a bit, but it's been steadily gaining momentum in recent years, and plate blocks are a big part of that. Here’s why: Investment Potential: Rare plate blocks can be a solid investment. As with any collectible, value can increase over time, especially for blocks that are in excellent condition and have a strong provenance. Historical Significance: They’re a tangible link to the past, offering a glimpse into the history of postal systems, printing techniques, and even the cultural context of the time. Unique Collectible: They're a step above just collecting stamps. Plate blocks are rarer and more challenging to find, making them a more rewarding collectible for serious enthusiasts. Aesthetic Appeal: Let’s be honest, some of these blocks are just plain beautiful. The colors, the typography, and the overall design can be quite striking. What's Available Now? PUR ISSAQUAH LLC doesn't have a huge inventory – that's part of what makes them special. They carefully curate their selection, offering a limited number of exceptionally high-quality plate blocks at any given time. Currently, they feature several exciting blocks, including: A rare block of 1869 Pictorials: These blocks, featuring early depictions of American life, are highly sought after by collectors. Blocks from the early 20th century airmail stamps: These are particularly collectible due to the historical significance of early airmail service. Error blocks: Blocks with printing errors (like misprints or color variations) are always in demand, as they represent unique and unusual pieces. Blocks with full margins: These blocks retain the original edges of the printing plate, providing valuable information about the printing process. How to Get in Touch Interested in learning more about PUR ISSAQUAH LLC and their rare plate blocks? You can reach them at: PUR ISSAQUAH LLC 777 CALIFORNIA AVE, 100 PALO ALTO, CA, 94304-1199, UNITED STATES 417-868-4285 They encourage potential buyers to contact them with any questions or to discuss specific collecting interests. Due to the high value of these items, direct communication is preferred. They also encourage potential buyers to check with established online auction and collecting sites for current offerings, and be sure to authenticate any potential purchases!