Refinitiv Unveils Plate Block Singles: A Game-Changer for Stamp Collectors & Data Enthusiasts

New York, NY – October 26, 2023 – Refinitiv US LLC, a leading provider of financial markets data and infrastructure, today announced the launch of “Plate Block Singles,” a unique initiative that combines the world of philately (stamp collecting) with the power of Refinitiv’s data expertise. It's a bit different from what we normally do, but trust us, it's interesting! You’re probably thinking, “Refinitiv… stamps?” Yeah, we get that reaction! But hear us out. We've always been about uncovering hidden connections and providing detailed, accurate information. Turns out, collecting plate block singles is full of that! And we're bringing our data chops to help collectors navigate this fascinating hobby. What are Plate Block Singles? Okay, for those not in the know, let’s break it down. Back in the day – think before fancy high-speed printing – stamps weren’t printed individually. They were printed in sheets, usually with a “plate number” block attached. These plate blocks showed the printer’s identification and sometimes the printing plate used. When collectors talk about “plate block singles,” they’re talking about individual stamps cut from these sheets, still including a portion of that plate number block. These aren’t your grandma’s stamps anymore (though Grandma might appreciate them!). Plate block singles are sought after by collectors for a few reasons: they're a piece of printing history, they can be rarer than regular stamps, and they often have a higher value. Why is Refinitiv Getting Involved? At Refinitiv, we’re all about data. And collecting plate block singles? It’s actually a surprisingly data-rich hobby. Things like plate numbers, printing dates, perforation variations, paper types… it all adds up. Traditionally, this information has been scattered across books, magazines, online forums, and auction records. It’s a pain to piece together! “We realized there was a real need for a centralized, accurate source of information for plate block single collectors,” explains Sarah Chen, Head of Innovation at Refinitiv. “We saw an opportunity to apply our data management skills to this niche, but passionate community.” What Does “Plate Block Singles” by Refinitiv Offer? We're not selling stamps (not yet, anyway!). What we’ve built is a comprehensive online platform – think of it as a super-powered database – dedicated to plate block singles. Here’s what you get: Detailed Catalog: We've painstakingly cataloged thousands of plate block singles, covering US stamps primarily, with plans to expand internationally. Each entry includes high-resolution images, key identifying features, historical context, and estimated values. Plate Number Tracker: This is where our data expertise really shines. We've built a tool that lets you search for specific plate numbers, see which stamps were printed from that plate, and track its rarity. It’s like a fingerprint for each stamp! Rarity Index: We’re using a proprietary algorithm to assess the rarity of each plate block single. Factors include the number printed, known surviving examples, condition, and demand. This helps collectors understand the true value of their holdings. Price History & Auction Data: We track auction results from major stamp auctions worldwide, providing collectors with real-time price data. Want to know how much a specific plate block single actually sold for? We've got you covered. Condition Guide: Assessing stamp condition can be tricky. Our detailed guide, with accompanying images, helps collectors accurately grade their stamps. Community Forum: A place for collectors to connect, share information, ask questions, and show off their prized possessions. Beyond Collecting: A Look at the Data But it’s not just for stamp nerds (and we say that with love!). We think the data behind plate block singles can actually be interesting for a broader audience. Think about it: Historical Insights: Plate numbers and printing dates can tell us a lot about the history of stamp production, printing techniques, and even the social and economic conditions of the time. Supply & Demand Analysis: Tracking the rarity and price of plate block singles can provide insights into collector behavior and the dynamics of niche markets. Data Visualization: We’re exploring ways to visualize the data in engaging ways, such as mapping the distribution of plate numbers across different regions. "We believe there's a lot of untapped potential in this data," says David Lee, Chief Data Scientist at Refinitiv. "We’re excited to see what insights we can uncover." Where to Find Out More The “Plate Block Singles” platform is available now at [insert website address here - placeholder]. We’re offering a free trial for new users. Refinitiv will be showcasing the platform at the upcoming American Philatelic Society StampShow in October. Come visit our booth to see a demonstration and meet the team. About Refinitiv Refinitiv US LLC, located at 28 Liberty St Fl 58, New York, NY, 10005-1457, United States (770-964-6545), is a global provider of financial markets data and infrastructure. We empower our clients with the insights they need to make informed decisions. While traditionally focused on financial data, we’re always exploring new ways to apply our expertise to solve complex problems. Sometimes, that means delving into the fascinating world of stamp collecting!