[TheForge] Question tool (off topic)

[D.E. (Donn) Barnes]

I've come across an old tool that I can't identify and thought I'd put it
out to the old-timers on this list to see if I could find out how it was
used. It is a wheel about 5 inches in diameter with number stamp dies
fitted. There are 11sequential dies from 1 thru 10 and with a 1/2 being the
11th die. The number is also stamped into the wheel directly opposite the
die so the user could easily see what number is being stamped. The dies
appear to be replaceable, held in by set screws. It has a wooden handle on
the end of a 10" shaft, and a tubing collar between the handle and the head
that freely rotates. On the head of the wheel is the name "Improved Figure
Wheel".

Obviously it was made to stamp numbers into something, but I can't find any
reference as to what. Anybody care to venture a guess? I could put a photo
on the web site if somebody wanted to see it.

Donn