Harrison decimal cylinder blocks

Cylinder blocks have markings in the margins that correspond with the printers identifying information, phosphor numbers, colour, etc.This method of collecting is favoured by specialists as all the necessary proof and information of origin is evident as details in the markings.

These are usually collected in blocks of six (2 x 3). Harrisons small format stamps have the cyl number in the margin opposite row 18. The primary sheet is guillotined into two, each half has the same cyl number.The right hand pane should have a full stop placed in the box next to the cyl number, this is known to collectors as the “dot pane, or sheet” The left hand pane of the sheet being the “no dot sheet”.

It is normal for the no dot pane to have a wider margin, this allows identification even if the markings are missing (usually in error).

Chambon printings had a different sheet layout, hese were printed in double sheets of 100 with the sheets located one above the other .They were separated by a horizontal gutter.The cylinder numbers appear opposite rows 8 or 18, only no dot panes exist.

Row 8 is collected as a block of 8 (2 x 4) with the gutter below stamps 5 & 6.Row 18 is collected as a normal block of 2 x 3. Chambon printing only affects 2 stamps, these are both 10p values.The first is a 2 band FCP/DEX with 10 mm phosphor, the other is printed on PCP1/DEX with additional 2 phosphor bands.

Large format photogravure Machins were printed in double panes with a central gutter.The cyl numbers appear in the top margin of each pane above the second stamp.The dot pane is to the left of the master sheet and the no dot to the right.

Redrawn numerals and security features.The Harrisons Hare logo was introduced in the margin .In Feb. 1997 De la Rue took a interest in the company and their logo appeared on all new cylinders.

Questa,Waddington,Enschede and Walsall all produced cylinder blocks, but because this is such a vast field I will use this as a cut off pont. If you want to study this fascinating subject further I recommend that you read a copy of the Connoisseur Catalogue of Machine Stamps, here they are explained along with perforation types etc. in great detail.  Next:  Prestige Booklets