Abstract: A ribbon dater which has, improved structure: (a) to quickly reverse the direction of movement of the ribbon so that the same can be re-run thru the printer; (b) to quickly reverse the direction of movement of the ribbon and at the same time provide for a different half of the ribbon to effect the printing; (c) to initiate the printing operation; and (d) to increase printing efficiency but that the type, the ribbon and the part to be printed are all held fixed and printing effected by a movable striker.