1998.59

Tool for embossing symbol on metal embossing plate

Steel embossing plate symbol tongs; arms riveted to squared joint (rounded corners) ; exaggerated bend in top arm about a quarter down its length; slight taper in both arms from joint to jaws; fittings riveted in jaws form tap and die to create "X" symbol; tool marks from files and band saw used to create tongs are left unfinished.

H-1.75 W-0.875 D-12.875 inches

ca. 1925

American Printing House for the Blind

Louisville, Kentucky

APH introduced its first line of paper tactile maps in 1894. These maps lacked the raised symbols created with tools such as this pair of embossing tongs. APH purchased a machine to emboss small symbols on embossing plates in 1905. Tactile maps and other raised graphics from APH after 1905 all feature such symbols. The machine was limited, however, so over the years the company created embossing tongs to increase the range of symbols at its command. In 1984, APH created a new symbol embossing machine, and a number of the older hand tools were replaced by the symbol making capacity of the new Pearl Companion. Embossing tongs continue to be used in the APH Graphics shop to this day.