In depth knowledge

Plate Numbers for SG36a: Plate 6
Watermark: SG36a has a large crown watermark.
Perforation: SG36a is perforated with a gauge of 16.

Plates 6 general characteristics

Plate 6 has several identifying characteristics related to its printing history and repairs. This plate was first used for the 1d black and was repaired multiple times, which left distinctive marks on the stamps printed from it.

Plate history: Originally used for the Penny Black (SG2), Plate 6 was used for the perforated issues of the Two Pence Blue and was in use from July 1857 to July 1858. .

Characteristics specific to Plate 6

The white lines above and below the inscriptions are thinner compared to stamps from Plates 3 to 5

Re-entries: Known re-entries for Plate 6 include letters "KE" and "QE" for the SG 35 and SG 36a varieties, respectively.

Plate flaws: Plate 6 includes distinctive flaws and repairs. For example, some impressions of the stamp with letters "MD" show a weakening of the right side of the check letter 'M'.

Errors: Rare printing errors, such as vertical pairs with the "imperf between" error, are known to exist for Plate 6 and command significant value.