Pica Numbers
12 hours ago
- #typography
- #font-design
- #typewriters
- Typewriter fonts often have numbers taller than capital letters, a unique feature not commonly highlighted in typography discussions.
- Examples from the IBM Selectric and Olympia SM4 show numbers like 4, 6, and 8 ascending above the cap height, while 3, 5, 7, and 9 descend below the baseline.
- Variations in number design exist even within the same brand, such as the flat-topped 3 in the IBM Selectric III compared to the round-topped 3 in earlier models.
- Classic typewriters like the Olivetti Lettera 22 and Hermes 3000 also exhibit this feature, though the specific numbers that ascend or descend can vary.
- Not all typewriter fonts follow this pattern; some, like those on the Imperial The Good Companion Nº 1 and Royal 10, use lining numbers that match the height of capitals.
- The article notes a lack of discussion about typewriter fonts in major typography resources, suggesting an underappreciated aspect of font design.
- The concept of 'Pica' as a font is explored, with the author suggesting it represents a family of similar designs rather than a single, uniform font.
- Practical compromises in typewriter design, such as using lowercase 'l' for '1' and uppercase 'O' for '0', are mentioned as cost-saving measures.