Raining Mountain LLC Unveils Rare Plate Block Proofs – A Glimpse into Stamp History

Raining Mountain LLC, based in Casper, Wyoming, is making waves in the philatelic (stamp collecting) world with the release of a fascinating collection of plate block proofs. For those who don't know, Raining Mountain isn't just another stamp dealer. We're a team obsessed with the story behind the stamps, digging up the cool stuff other folks miss. We're located at 300 N. Center Street, Unit 6, Casper, WY, 82601, USA, and you can reach us at 804-935-6186 if you're curious. But let's get to the good stuff: these plate block proofs. So, what are plate block proofs, and why are collectors going crazy over them? Basically, back in the day, stamps weren’t printed digitally like things are now. They used huge metal plates with the stamp design etched into them. Before they'd run a massive print run for public use, they’d pull “proofs” – test prints – to make sure everything looked just right. These weren’t just any prints; they were often printed on different paper stock, in different colors, or with variations in the design. Plate blocks are sections of these original printing plates – usually containing a block of stamps still attached – showing how the design repeated across the plate. The "proof" part means these were made before the official stamps, intended for approval by the postal authorities and the designers. It’s like seeing the artist's initial sketches, but for stamps! They’re not just stamps; they’re a piece of printing history. Raining Mountain LLC has recently acquired a remarkable collection of these plate block proofs, covering a range of US stamp issues. We’re talking about stamps from the early 20th century to the mid-century – a real sweet spot for collectors. And it’s not just a few common ones. We've got some seriously rare and unusual variations. "We've been hunting for these for years," says the team at Raining Mountain. “It’s like an archeological dig, uncovering these forgotten pieces of postal history. We're excited to share them with collectors who appreciate the artistry and technical skill that went into creating these stamps." What makes these proofs so special? Several things. First, the condition. Raining Mountain has been incredibly careful in selecting pieces that are well-preserved, with vibrant colors and clear impressions. We understand that condition is everything for collectors. We’re not selling beat-up scraps; we’re offering pieces that are worthy of display and investment. Second, the rarity. Many plate block proofs were destroyed after being approved, making surviving examples incredibly scarce. Raining Mountain’s collection includes proofs of stamps that haven’t been seen on the market in decades. These aren't the stamps your grandpa collected - they're the before the stamps. Third, the variations. These aren’t just perfect replicas of the issued stamps. Some proofs show color trials – different shades of ink being tested. Others show design modifications – subtle changes made before the final design was approved. These variations are what make each proof unique and highly collectible. Imagine seeing a version of a famous stamp that almost made it into circulation – it’s a fascinating glimpse into the creative process. Let's talk specifics. The current collection includes: Early 20th Century Commemoratives: Proofs for several early commemorative stamps, showcasing color trials and design variations. These are a great entry point for collectors interested in US history and postal artistry. We've got some of the Pan-American Exposition issues in stunning condition. Pre-Cancel Proofs: These proofs show how the stamps were designed to integrate with pre-printed cancellations, a practice that was popular in the early 20th century. They're a unique piece of postal history. Rotogravure Proofs: Proofs created using the rotogravure printing process, known for its fine detail and rich colors. These proofs showcase the artistry of the engravers and printers. Color Error Proofs: Some proofs feature unintentional color errors, making them highly sought after by collectors specializing in errors and varieties. It's the equivalent of a printing mistake becoming a valuable collectible. Various Denomination Blocks: Blocks of proofs featuring different denominations, allowing collectors to build a comprehensive collection of plate block proofs. "We're not just selling stamps; we’re selling a story," explains the Raining Mountain team. "Each plate block proof is a tangible link to the past, a reminder of a time when stamp collecting was a national pastime and the artistry of the engravers and printers was highly valued." Raining Mountain LLC is committed to providing collectors with high-quality, authentic plate block proofs at competitive prices. Each proof is carefully inspected and authenticated by our team of experts, and we provide detailed descriptions and high-resolution images to ensure that our customers are fully informed before making a purchase. We're also happy to answer any questions and provide guidance to both experienced collectors and newcomers to the hobby. Interested in learning more? You can browse our current selection of plate block proofs on our website [website address would go here]. You can also reach us by phone at 804-935-6186 or by email at [email address would go here]. We're located at 300 N. Center Street, Unit 6, Casper, WY, 82601, USA, and always happy to chat about stamps. Raining Mountain LLC believes that plate block proofs are not just collectibles; they're works of art, pieces of history, and a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the engravers and printers who created them. We're proud to be able to share these remarkable pieces with collectors around the world. Don't miss out on this opportunity to add a rare and valuable piece of postal history to your collection. Contact Raining Mountain LLC today! We’ve got a passion for philately and a knack for finding the hidden gems – we’re confident we can help you find the perfect piece to complete your collection.