Display (1.0") size matrices for Baskerville (Typeface Series number: 169), 24. In original wooden box no. 1203, manufactured by Monotype Corporation. Part of Monotype Loan Library collection.

As well as manufacturing machines that composed and cast type, The Monotype Corporation manufactured matrices for hundreds of different designs of typefaces in metal. From a set of matrices the owner of a Monotype machine could cast as much fresh type as they needed. Monotype built up a remarkable collection of typefaces for hot-metal technology, starting in 1900 and adding to it until the early 1980s. Each Monotype typeface was allocated a series number and a name. Type came in points (pt) and continental standard Didot (D) sizes from as small as 4 ¼ pt and as large as 72pt or 72D. Type that was 14pt and larger was known as display size because of its suitability for setting as headings and titles as opposed to continuous text.

A Monotype matrix is a bronze metal die from which type characters are cast. Type in sizes 14 point and larger is known as display size because of its suitability for setting as headings and titles as opposed to continuous text. Most display matrices measure 1 inch (2.54cm) x 1 inch, although some of the 72-point matrices are slightly larger. Display matrices are stamped with the series number, the point size and a figure indicating the width at which to cast it.

The Monotype Corporation produced metal matrices as well as machines that composed and cast type. The user of a Monotype machine could cast as much fresh type as they needed from a set of matrices. The company established a Display Matrix Loan Library in London so that printers with their own Monotype Super Caster machine could borrow display matrices for individual jobs, rather than buying them and locking up capital. It contained over 1,300 sets of matrices in custom-made boxes. There were often several sizes of the same design available. The typefaces include historical revivals such as Plantin, traditional typefounders’ designs such as Goudy Old Style and original designs such as Albertus. A full fount of roman or italic display matrices of any one size could be hired per day or per week. They were also available for purchase.