Abstract: A self-storing and inking stamp comprises an upper piece containing a stamping die at its lower end and a lower piece with an ink pad and piston which is accessible to the fingers of the user through a twisting bar. The piston and twisting bar are arranged in the lower piece such that they do not project beyond the plane of the base of the lower piece so that the lower piece can stably rest on a horizontal surface. The upper piece is threaded into the lower piece to bring the stamping die into contact with or at least into close proximity to the ink pad. Thereafter, the piston can be pushed axially in the direction of the ink pad and stamping die while being twisted to effect complete inking of the die.