Dwarf was correct in regards to the legal profession :)
But here are the answers I was looking for
Antique serial numbering machine.
Used to assign serial numbers to Doctor's prescriptions
by Druggists in Pharmacies.
The Bates Automatic Numbering Machine was patented in 1891-93 by the
Bates Manufacturing Company of Edison, NJ
Thanks for clarifying that, Jack. Although I stated that it was primarily used in the legal profession, it could be used anywhere where the unique lettering/numbering of papers/documents is required. The action of stamping would cause the current code to be imprinted/embossed, and lifting it off would cause the code to change automatically via a stepping mechanism, in much the same way as a hand-held mechanical counter does. It is possible to manually set the stamper to any of the allowable codes to begin with.
A carpet Stretcher,? if not my other.
Or a yolkie bob for tightening a net on a tennis courts or the like.
