Margin

Margin has two related meanings in philately.

1. The stamp margin — the unprinted space between the edge of a stamp’s design and the edge of the stamp itself (its perforations or cut edge).
2. The sheet margin — also called the selvage or selvedge — the blank paper around the edge of a sheet or pane of stamps.

Stamp Margins and Condition

On perforated stamps, the width and balance of the margins determine centering: equal margins on all sides make a well-centred stamp. On imperforate stamps, margins are even more critical, because they depend on how carefully the stamp was cut from the sheet. Descriptions of classic stamps use terms such as:

• Four margins — clear space on all four sides.
• Large margins — generous space, well clear of neighbouring stamps.
• Close or touching — the cut approaches or touches the design.
• Cut into — the scissors have entered the design.

Sheet Margins and Marginal Markings

Sheet margins often carry printing information that collectors seek out:

• Plate numbers and cylinder numbers identifying the printing base.
• Printer’s imprints naming the printer.
• Control numbers or letters used for accounting.
• Colour registration marks and colour check dots.
• Sheet values and row counters.
• Dates of printing.

Stamps with these marginal features are collected as singles, pairs and blocks — for example, US plate blocks and British cylinder blocks.

Margins and Gutters

Sheet margins are the outer edges of a sheet or pane. Blank strips between panes are called gutters.

Handling Tip

Marginal paper protects stamps and carries information. Resist the urge to trim it off — trimming reduces the value of marginal pieces and can never be reversed.