debug_getRawHeader

Return the raw RLP-encoded block header for a Monad block. This is the narrowest way to inspect block metadata at the byte level without pulling the full transaction body.

Return Format

debug_getRawHeader accepts a block number and returns one header-sized RLP string for that block. Fixed block numbers such as 0x3dd6abd are the right choice when you need byte-for-byte comparisons across environments.

Why You Would Use It

debug_getRawHeader is the right tool when you care about the exact encoded header but not the transaction list. That comes up in header verification, proof tooling, light clients, and any workflow where you need to isolate consensus and block metadata from transaction payloads.

Compared with debug_getRawBlock, this method reduces payload size and keeps the debugging target focused. Compared with eth_getBlockByNumber, it preserves the original RLP bytes instead of giving you decoded JSON fields.

Caveats

• The response is still opaque hex, so you need an RLP decoder to inspect individual header fields.
• Use a fixed block number for reproducible comparisons; the encoded header changes every block.
• This method is meant for infrastructure and protocol tooling, not for routine application reads.

Related Methods

• debug_getRawBlock for the full block payload.
• chain_getHeader if you need a decoded Substrate-style header view from another stack.
• eth_getBlockByNumber for a decoded EVM block response.