Raining Mountain LLC Brings a Piece of Printing History Back to Life with Plate Block Proofs

Raining Mountain LLC, a small but dedicated company nestled in Casper, Wyoming (300 N. Center Street, Unit 6, Casper, WY, 82601, USA – reachable at 804-935-6186), isn’t your typical collectibles dealer. We're passionate about the process of printing, and specifically, the beautiful, historical remnants of that process: plate block proofs. You might be asking, “What are plate block proofs?” Let us explain. For those unfamiliar, back in the day, before everything went digital, stamps weren’t just printed – they were painstakingly crafted. The images weren’t directly on the stamps themselves. Instead, they were etched onto steel plates. Think of it like a really intricate, reusable stamp making stamp. These plates were then used to press ink onto paper, creating the stamps we all know. But before they started cranking out millions of stamps for everyday use, printers would run "proofs." These weren’t meant for mailing letters! They were test prints. Plate block proofs specifically showcase a block of multiple impressions taken directly from one corner of the printing plate. They let the printers check registration (making sure all the colors lined up perfectly), ink density, and overall quality before committing to a massive print run. And here's where it gets cool: After a print run, these plates were destroyed, following strict postal regulations. However, a small number of plate blocks were saved, usually by postal employees, creating a limited and fascinating glimpse into the world of vintage stamp production. That’s what Raining Mountain LLC specializes in – rescuing, preserving, and offering these incredible pieces of printing history. What Makes Plate Block Proofs So Special? It’s not just that they’re old. It's the details. Plate block proofs aren't about the stamp's value as postage. They’re valued as collectibles for several reasons: Rarity: As mentioned, the plates were destroyed. Genuine plate blocks are inherently scarce. The number surviving decreases every year. Printing Variety: Proofs often showcase unique variations not found on regular issued stamps. You might see color shades slightly different, or imperfections revealing the hand-crafted nature of the process. These aren't errors in the eyes of collectors, they're features. Plate Number: Crucially, legitimate plate blocks always include the plate number. This is like a serial number, identifying which specific plate was used to create the impression. This plate number is a key indicator of authenticity and adds to the collectible value. Without it, you're likely looking at a reproduction or a damaged block. Perforation Marks: These proofs display the complete, untrimmed perforations from the plate – a stark contrast to the neatly trimmed edges of standard stamps. It shows the raw, unfinished aspect of the printing process. Historical Significance: You're not just holding a piece of paper; you’re holding a tangible link to a bygone era of printing technology and postal history. It’s a window into how stamps were made before automation took over. Raining Mountain LLC: Preserving a Lost Art We at Raining Mountain LLC aren't just selling collectibles; we’re preserving a piece of printing history. We meticulously source our plate blocks, verifying authenticity and condition before offering them to collectors. We understand the nuances of plate block collecting, and we're passionate about sharing that knowledge with our customers. “We’ve noticed a growing interest in understanding the how behind things,” says a representative from Raining Mountain LLC. “People are fascinated by the craftsmanship involved in older technologies. Plate block proofs offer a really satisfying, tactile way to connect with that history.” What Kind of Plate Blocks Does Raining Mountain LLC Offer? We offer a diverse range of plate block proofs, catering to collectors of all levels. Our current inventory includes: Classic US Stamps: We specialize in plate blocks featuring early US postage stamps, like the iconic 1890 series, 1918 series, and early 20th-century commemoratives. These are highly sought after by serious collectors. Foreign Plate Blocks: We are actively expanding our selection of plate blocks from around the world. These offer a unique opportunity to explore the printing histories of different postal systems. Variety & Oddities: We also feature unusual or rare plate block variations, such as blocks with color errors or unique plate numbers. These are treasures for seasoned collectors. Different Denominations: From one-cent stamps to high-value commemoratives, we carry plate blocks representing a wide range of stamp denominations. Why Choose Raining Mountain LLC? Authenticity Guaranteed: We stand behind the authenticity of every plate block we sell. We have a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the telltale signs of genuine proofs. Expert Knowledge: We are passionate about plate block collecting and happy to answer any questions you may have. Secure Packaging: We carefully package all orders to ensure they arrive safely and in excellent condition. Personalized Service: We treat every customer with respect and provide a personalized shopping experience. Interested in Learning More? You can browse our current inventory and learn more about plate block proofs on our website (details available upon request). You can also reach us directly at 804-935-6186 to discuss your collecting interests or to inquire about specific items. At Raining Mountain LLC, we believe that plate block proofs are more than just collectibles – they’re pieces of history waiting to be rediscovered. We invite you to join us in preserving this fascinating aspect of printing and postal history. Don't just collect stamps – collect the story behind them.