100

Print Blocks

In the days before computerized printing, typesetters set type for newspapers and

advertising

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print blocks

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were place alongside the type. These blocks would add

images and decorations. Additional terms for the blocks are letterpress cuts and

printing dies. Here are a few matched up to the corkscrew shown on the block.

Left: 1 1/2

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x 2

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advertising print block for William A. Williamson's December 13, 1898

U. S. Patent D-29,798 corkscrew with cap lifter above the bell.

Right: 1 3/4

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x 2 1/4

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advertising print block for William A. Williamson's August 10,

1897 U. S. Patent 587,900 corkscrew with washer above the bell

.

Left: 1 3/4

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x 2 1/4

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advertising print block for William A. Williamson's August 10,

1897 U. S. Patent 587,900 corkscrew with flat fixed wire cutter above the bell.

Right: 2

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x 2

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advertising print block for William A. Williamson's August 10, 1897 U. S.

Patent 587,900 corkscrew with flat fixed wire cutter above the bell.