Invented and first produced in 1884. For the original selling price of merely $25.00, That translates to around $800.00 in today's money. Banks and businesses could foil embezzlers and con artists with positive amounts perforated in to paper stock documents and check blanks. Ever wondered where the expression " Cut a cheque" came from? Your curiosity is now satisfied. The pictured sample of the result of operating the machine shows that the cutters are still sharp and that they still produce crisp cuts and tidy chads. No need to reposition the stock after each number is punched- the machine automatically advances the stock with correct spacing. Note that the numbers on the top plate have been over-painted with white paint at some time in the punch's existence.  Rumored to be from the County Treasurer's Office in Cripple Creek, Colorado. Comes with the State of Colorado asset tag pictured. Plausible provenance but in no way provable.