...is either just *one* of the dies, yet to be mounted on the substrate, or 
*This is a serious, non-trolly question, i take geekly pride in being able to figure out just what i'm looking at. If someone could explain, i'm all ears.
*This is a serious, non-trolly question, i take geekly pride in being able to figure out just what i'm looking at. If someone could explain, i'm all ears.
That is a good question. It looks like a complete package (die, heatspreader, substrate). Some more and better photos will tell help though. Photo of die/chip/package from the side and from the bottom would be nice.
agreed, it doesn't look like a die. its not a great photo. but if it isn't a die.. AND it has writing on it.. so its most likely a package - perhaps a prototype one thats not all shiny and new.. it doesn't look like a package I've seen before. Doesn't mean it isn't though.