Many stamps have tiny variations and usually these are of only of interest to collectors if they are constant flaws which appear on all similarly positioned stamps. This variation might only appear on one stamp per sheet, or on sheets printed by a certain cylinder. These variations exist throughout the print run of the stamps, or until it is corrected by the engraver. These are known as minor flaws and are catalogued by Stanley Gibbons.

Casual flaws often occur, but because they are unlikely to be repeated are not catalogued. They occur for many reasons, like specs of dust on a printing plate, or a slight misalignment of the paper. These flaws are always unique but are not necessarily valuable. These are usually destroyed before they reach the public.

---

Bookmark with: