Abstract: Disclosed is a printing solenoid for a high speed wire matrix printer which provides efficient operation at voltages in the order of 10 to 12 volts DC while maintaining a reduced physical size while at the same time drawing no noticeable increase in current over printing solenoids of comparable size which normally require 24 to 28 volts DC for their operation. The printing solenoid of the subject invention is comprised of a minimum number of parts including a three piece bobbin having a stainless steel core and cold rolled steel end pieces. Wound on the bobbin is a solenoid coil of a predetermined number of turns (300) of wire of a particular size (No. 29 AWG) which enables efficient operation at 12 volts DC. A spring biased armature to which is uniquely bonded a small diameter print wire is axially located within the bobbin and is operable for reciprocal movement upon the energization and deenergization of the solenoid coil.