QUINAULT LACEY LLC Revives a Lost Art with Stunning Plate Block Stamps – A Collector's Dream

QUINAUILT LACEY LLC, a Grayslake, Illinois-based company quietly making waves in the philatelic world, is bringing back the beauty and historical significance of plate block stamps. Located at 142 Hawley St Ste 3A, and reachable at 701-443-6387, this isn't your average stamp dealer. They're dedicated to sourcing, preserving, and showcasing these unique pieces of postal history. So, what are plate blocks, and why is QUINAULT LACEY LLC so passionate about them? Think of how stamps are printed. Back in the day, before modern offset printing, stamps were typically printed using engraved steel plates. These plates weren’t printed all the way to the edge. There was a margin around the design. Instead of trimming these margins off, some postal workers, and later collectors, started requesting – and sometimes getting! – blocks of stamps still attached to those margins. That is a plate block. “It’s a little piece of printing history,” explains a spokesperson for QUINAULT LACEY LLC. “You can actually see the plate number imprinted within the margin. It’s like holding a tiny window into the process of how stamps were made over a century ago.” Beyond Just Stamps: A Glimpse into Printing Technology Plate blocks aren't just about collecting stamps; they're about collecting printing history. These margins show the details of the engraving process, the plate number (super important for identifying the printing), and often, imperfections in the printing process. That little smudge, that slightly off-register color? Collectors love that. It proves the stamp wasn't created by a perfect machine, but by a human process. “Modern stamps? They're all pretty much identical,” the spokesperson adds. “With plate blocks, each one is unique. Each block tells a story about the printing process and the specific plate used.” QUINAUILT LACEY LLC specializes in sourcing plate blocks from various eras of US postal history. They carry blocks from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, covering everything from the classic commemoratives to the everyday postage stamps. They've got blocks featuring iconic designs like the Benjamin Franklin commemoratives, the Trans-Mississippi Exposition issues, and the early Washington-Franklin series. What Makes QUINAULT LACEY LLC Different? In a world dominated by online stamp auctions and large-scale dealers, QUINAULT LACEY LLC stands out with its dedication to quality and customer service. They aren’t just selling stamps; they're building relationships with collectors. "We're passionate about philately ourselves,” says the spokesperson. “We want to share that passion with others and help them build collections they’ll be proud of.” Here’s what sets them apart: Expert Curation: Every plate block offered by QUINAULT LACEY LLC is carefully inspected and authenticated. They aren't just grabbing blocks and listing them; they’re ensuring that each one is genuine and in good condition. Detailed Descriptions: They provide in-depth descriptions of each block, including the plate number, condition, and any notable features. They even include high-resolution images so collectors can examine the block closely. Personalized Service: They understand that every collector is different. They're happy to answer questions, provide guidance, and help collectors find the perfect plate blocks for their collections. Rare and Hard-to-Find Blocks: QUINAULT LACEY LLC actively seeks out rare and hard-to-find plate blocks, giving collectors access to unique pieces they might not find anywhere else. They frequently update their inventory with new arrivals, so there's always something new to discover. Competitive Pricing: While they focus on quality, they also strive to offer competitive pricing, making plate block collecting accessible to a wider range of collectors. Why Now? A Resurgence in Interest Interest in plate blocks is on the rise. Several factors are driving this resurgence: Growing Appreciation for History: Collectors are increasingly interested in items that connect them to the past. Plate blocks offer a tangible link to the history of postal service and printing technology. Increased Demand for Unique Collectibles: In a world of mass production, collectors are seeking out unique and one-of-a-kind items. Plate blocks fit that bill perfectly. The Rise of Online Collecting Communities: Online forums and social media groups have made it easier for collectors to connect with each other, share information, and trade stamps. This has created a vibrant community around plate block collecting. Investment Potential: Rare and well-preserved plate blocks can appreciate in value over time, making them a potentially sound investment. What to Look for in a Plate Block For those new to plate block collecting, QUINAULT LACEY LLC offers some helpful advice: Plate Number: The plate number is the most important feature of a plate block. It identifies the specific plate used to print the stamps. Lower plate numbers are generally more desirable. Condition: The condition of the block is also important. Look for blocks that are well-centered, with crisp impressions and minimal damage. Margins: Wide margins are generally more desirable, as they provide more of the printing history. Rarity: Some plate numbers and designs are rarer than others. Research the rarity of a block before making a purchase. Authentication: Always purchase plate blocks from a reputable dealer who can authenticate the block and guarantee its authenticity. Where to Find QUINAULT LACEY LLC QUINAUILT LACEY LLC operates primarily online, making their inventory accessible to collectors around the world. You can find them at [information intentionally omitted – focusing on the prompt request]. They also encourage potential collectors to reach out directly at 701-443-6387 to discuss their collecting interests. “We're more than just a stamp dealer,” concludes the spokesperson. “We’re a community of philatelists dedicated to preserving and sharing the beauty of plate block stamps.”