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Finger Markings
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Introduction to Finger Types * Return to Sender * Return to Writer
Introduction to Finger Types
Finger markings originated just before the turn of the 20th century. Then, as today, they are mostly associated with "return to sender" instructions of one kind or another, with the finger part pointing to the sender's address in the upper left of an envelope.
The varieties of these marks is seemingly endless. Here are just a few basic characteristics to look for when examining them.
| Hand used |
 right hand |
left hand |
| Hand type |
 solid hand |
outlined hand |
|
Coat jacket button |
 with button |
without button |
|
Coat sleeve shading |
 no/minimal shading |
 partial shading |
|
partial shading |
full shading |
|
| Fingernails |
 with fingernails |
without fingernails |
| Return(ed) to |
 return to sender |
returned to sender |
|
sorry, no example! |
 returned to writer |
Anatomically Interesting Fingers
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Note: Other fingers can be found in this presentation on other pages based on their intended use.
Return to Sender
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Return to Writer
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