Note
Purpose:
Punched cards were widely used in the 20th century for data processing and controlling automated machines. Printing plates were essential for creating these cards.
Printing Process:
The printing plate, often the size of an IBM card, was formed into a cylinder. It contained the layout for a specific type of punched card (e.g., 80-column format). These plates were used in rotary presses to print the cards.
Collectible Artifacts:
Discarded printing plates found new life as desk pen/pencil holders. Each printing plate represented a unique card layout.
Even today, they are collectible IBM artifacts. So, a punch card printing plate combines practical function with historical significance!
