Abstract: An articulating hand stamp mechanism is disclosed which is capable of being articulated between closed and open positions. In the closed position, a pair of pivotally connected split housings enclose the stamp pad and its housing completely. The mechanism may be articulated open by causing the housings to rotate about the pivot point which in turn results in the stamp pad housing to rotate to a horizontal position so that the pad can be brought against an article to be marked. Each of the split housings has had grasping portions with one of the hand grasping portions having a pressure bearing surface canted at an angle with respect to the other portion when the mechanism is closed. Because the pressure surfaces are canted and positioned a distance away from the pivot point, increased torque is provided, allowing the mechanism to be easily opened when desired while simultaneously minimizing opening caused by unintentionally applied force.