Kelton Etching Press: Spider

LETTERPRESS DEPARTMENT

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Nickname: Spider

Year Produced: 1860s

Manufacturer: M.M. Kelton & Son

Location: New York

Bed Size: 12”x10”

Little is known about M.M. Kelton & Son, although this etching press was manufactured to print bills and other currency. To decrease risk of forgery, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing used a method known as intaglio. Once ink is embedded in the grooves of a printing plate, a large amount of pressure is applied, forcing the paper up into the grooves. This leaves a slightly raised design, making it easier to identify counterfeits. The nickname “Spider” comes from the long, spindly spokes used to apply pressure when passing a plate through the machine. Our press is also known as a D-cylinder, which refers to the half shape of the roller.