Abstract: An identification device, especially a plate for identifying articles, particularly pieces of rough timber, comprising a flat rigid support (1), to which are affixed information marks (2) visible from the outer face (3) of the supports (1), the inner face (4) of the support (1) generally being arranged against the article to be identified, the device being such that, in combination, on the one hand the information marks (2) are located in the direction of the inner face of a flat element (5) forming part of the device, and on the other hand the element (5) is joined rigidly against the outer face of the support (1) and is transparent, at least opposite the information marks (2); in this way, the information marks (2) are both recognized from the outer face of the identification device and protected against external attack.