This unusual item is a quality-made serial number printing machine which dates to the end of the 19th Century. Made by Harrild & Sons of London who specialised in tools for the Newspaper & Printing Industry, lifting the handle and bringing it back down on the paper underneath would advance the mechanism to ink and print a unique four digit number (in sequential order). I presume this would have been used for numbering limited edition books etc?
Please see images but overall it is offered in lovely untouched original condition. The body is made of heavy cast iron (12kg) which retains its black paint and gilt line detail. The brass work retains most of its original gilt finish so this machine can’t have bene used too much when new. There is some wear from use to the wooden ink roller only. Everything appears complete and all moves smoothly as it should. Overall this is a really well made printing tool with an elegant look.
Dimensions: 56 cm long x 16 cm wide x 19cm high.
Free UK shipping is included in the price, but please request a price for international shipping before purchasing.
