What is an Autopen

What is an Autopen?

An Autopen is a mechanical device designed to automatically replicate a person's signature using a pen, producing an authentic ink signature without the individual's direct involvement. Public figures, including politicians and celebrities, widely use it to efficiently sign large volumes of documents, letters, and autographs. Unlike digital signatures or rubber stamps, the Autopen employs a motorized arm that physically moves a pen to mimic the exact strokes of a pre-programmed signature, often with adjustable settings for speed and pressure to enhance authenticity. The resulting signature is nearly indistinguishable from a handwritten one to the untrained eye. However, experts can sometimes detect its mechanical precision because of consistent pressure and lack of natural variation.

Invention and Early History

The concept of a signature-replicating device dates back to the early 19th century. The first notable precursor was invented by John Isaac Hawkins, an Englishman, who patented a device called the polygraph in the United States in 1803. This early machine, distinct from modern autopens, used a pantograph-like mechanism, where a writer's pen movements were mirrored by a second pen to create a simultaneous copy. Hawkins' polygraph was famously adopted by Thomas Jefferson, who used it extensively during his presidency to duplicate correspondence, calling it "the finest invention of the present age." However, this device required active participation from the signer and was not fully automated.

As we understand it today, the modern Autopen--a fully automated machine reproducing a stored signature--emerged much later. A significant step forward came in the 1930s with the development of the Robot Pen, which became commercially available in 1937. This device recorded a signature onto a physical medium (similar to a vinyl record) that could be replayed to produce duplicates. However, the first truly successful modern Autopen is credited to Robert M. De Shazo Jr., an American inventor. In 1942, De Shazo developed an advanced autopen in response to a Request for Quote (RFQ) from the U.S. Navy, which ordered the machine for official use. His design used a plastic matrix--a template engraved with the signature's pattern--that guided a motorized stylus and pen, marking the beginning of the Autopen's widespread adoption. De Shazo's invention was refined, transitioning from physical templates to digital storage in later decades.

The Autopen's place of invention is thus tied to the United States, with Hawkins' initial patent and De Shazo's pivotal advancements occurring there. However, the technology was built on earlier mechanical copying concepts from Europe.

Manufacturer

The Autopen became associated with the International Autopen Company, originally based in Arlington, Virginia, establishing itself as a key manufacturer. This company, often called The Autopen Company, gained prominence in Washington, D.C., particularly for supplying signature machines to the U.S. government. One of its notable products, the Model 50, was heavily utilized by President John F. Kennedy's administration. Over time, the company evolved, and today, Damilic Corporation, based in the United States, is recognized as the leading manufacturer of Autopen devices under the Autopen Company brand. Dominic has been in business for over 65 years, producing models like the Signascript Atlantic, a portable machine that stores multiple signatures on an SD card and uses any standard writing instrument.

Maintenance and Repair

Maintenance and repair of autopen machines are primarily controlled by the manufacturer. Damilic Corporation continues to service legacy models no longer in active production while offering support for newer machines. Their service includes a 180-day factory warranty and various maintenance plans to ensure operational reliability. For security, modern autopens like the Atlantic+ model feature password protection and usage counters to prevent unauthorized use, with signature data stored on removable SD cards that can be locked away. While basic upkeep (e.g., replacing pens or adjusting settings) can be handled by users, technical repairs--such as fixing the motorized arm or recalibrating the system--typically require the manufacturer's expertise. Damilic's dominance in this niche market means they are the primary entity responsible for producing and maintaining these devices, especially for high-profile clients like the U.S. government.

Recent Context

In recent news as of March 11, 2025, the Autopen has likely resurfaced in commentary because of its use by public figures or in official capacities, such as President Joe Biden's authorization in May 2024 to sign FAA funding legislation remotely while traveling. Its historical and ongoing role in politics--evident from its use by presidents like Kennedy, Johnson, and Obama--keeps it relevant, often sparking debate about authenticity and legality when used for official documents. Despite such discussions, no serious legal challenge has overturned its acceptance for signing legislation, as a 2005 Justice Department ruling upheld.

The Autopen is a signature-replicating device with roots in Hawkins' 1803 polygraph. It was revolutionized by De Shazo in 1942, manufactured today by Damilic Corporation (The Autopen Company), and maintained through their specialized services. Its evolution reflects a blend of mechanical ingenuity and modern digital technology tailored to meet the demands of efficiency and security.