Plating

Plating is the exact comparison of specific characteristics in a stamp to specific known examples that are known to come from specific printing plates. This is done to:
 * confirm specific types, for example as exist in the US 1851-57 issues
 * confirm genuine stamps, particularly in classic issues

It is precise work to correctly plate stamps. One does have to have high-quality images of genuine stamps for comparison. In a many cases, full panes or sheets exist or have existed and were photographed. Otherwise, full panes or sheets have been painstakingly reconstructed by serious philatelists from pairs and blocks. Plating Penny Blacks to determine the original plate they came from is a popular thing. Sadly, even when photos of originals have been made available, most people have incorrectly identified the plate number. Be aware that every point must pretty much exactly match the original. Plating is not something on which to do a lousy job.

Sometimes, with plate wear, matching against an original can be quite difficult or even impossible.

There are general characteristics that can be used to separate genuine from forgeries. For example, the Dragon issues of Japan have intentional secret marks. Unfortunately, there are a couple of genuine plate positions that do not have secret marks. Therefore, since all individual stamps on the plate were cut by hand, plating is a necessity.





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