Block of Stamps

In philately, a block is a group of four or more un-separated stamps. Blocks are of interest not only because they are rarer than individual stamps, but they also preserve relative positions of stamps as they were originally printed, information that is crucial to understanding how the stamps were produced.

 

Format

 

Block of Four

A standard block consisting of four unseparated stamps arranged in a 2x2 format. These are popular among collectors for their symmetry and completeness.

 Plate Block

A block of stamps (usually 4 or more) that includes the margin (selvage) with the plate number used during printing. Plate blocks are highly valued for the additional information they provide about the stamp's production.

 

Corner Block

This block is taken from the corner of a stamp sheet, often including the sheet margins and sometimes plate numbers or other markings. Corner blocks can be more desirable due to these additional features.

 

Imprint Block

An imprint block includes the printer's imprint in the margin, providing insight into the stamp's origin ( eg. Name of printer ). These are often collected for their historical significance.

 

Traffic Light Block

This block features the color registration marks (often colored dots or squares) used during the printing process to ensure color accuracy. These marks are typically found in the sheet margins.

 

Gutter Block

A gutter block consists of stamps on either side of a gutter (the blank space between panes on a sheet). These blocks are prized for their uniqueness and the presence of the gutter.

 

Specimen Block

Specimen blocks are stamps overprinted with the word "SPECIMEN" to indicate they were distributed for reference purposes and not for postal use. These are often collected for their rarity and historical value.