Abstract: A postage meter printing apparatus for applying postage indicia to a mailpiece having a cyclically operating drum for feeding the mailpiece through the postage meter. The periphery of the drum has an aperture therein. Structure is provided to maintain the mailpiece against the drum as the mailpiece is fed by the drum and to cycle the drum. A matrix print head located internal to the drum has a printing position and non-printing position. The print head is automatically placed adjacent the mailpiece through the aperture in the drum to its printing position, when the aperture is between the print head and the mailpiece. The print head is a matrix print head of impact or other type and includes a cooperating ribbon either inked or other to print on the mailpiece. The inked ribbon is contained in a replaceable cartridge. Structure is provided to activate the print head when it is in its printing position.