ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 8

Letter Quality Impact Printer Hammer Impressions
Anthony, AT
Document examiner, Georgia Bureau of Investigation, Division of Forensic Sciences, GA

(Received 17 August 1987; accepted 14 September 1987)

Abstract

While acquiring typewriter standards, an unusual mark was encountered. Scrutiny of the mark and the electronic typewriter (ET) that produced it disclosed that the impression was a reproduction of the ET's hammer. This was the result of a missing character as a result of a broken spoke. Initially, it was thought that encountering such a mark would assist in the identification process. Subsequent examination of hammer marks from various manufacturers shows them to be highly distinguishable. Potential therefore exists for dating, classification, and make and model determinations when impressions of this type are present in typescript cases. Hammer marks from letter quality (LQ) impact printers are illustrated, and their value in case work is discussed.

Keywords:
questioned documents, impressions, typewriters

Paper ID: JFS12489J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12489J
ASTM International is a member of CrossRef.