Abstract: A moving coil mechanism is utilized to operate each individual print wire of a matrix printing head. Static magnetic fields for the moving coil mechanism may be provided by permanent magnets. Also disclosed is a method for compensating varying frictional forces by sensing the voltage induced in the moving coil and utilizing the information so obtained as an indication of print wire velocity. Current drive to the moving coil can then be modified to maintain print wire velocity substantially independent of varying frictional forces. Also disclosed is an interspersed, or "nested," arrangement of moving coil mechanisms which contributes to the compactness of the improved matrix printer.