Peculiar Serif found on SUNY Certificate from the Mid-20th C.

Question

I'm trying to identify this peculiar serif that is being used as the primary typeface on this SUNY certificate from 1942. It bears some semblance to typefaces like De Vinne and ITC Bernase Roman, but is still quite different. The lower arm of the E, the axis of the O, and the R stand out in particular, but also just how high-contrast the typeface is.

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Answer 1

I’m afraid it’s not a typeface, but lettering. It’s neatly done, and still there are subtle differences between repeating letters. This is visible in the spine of S and the width of the U’s in lines 1 and 2, for example.

Comments

Thank you, Florian!! Yes, that makes sense. I can see the variations now. Such a neat and tidy piece of lettering. Wonder if any specific typefaces come to mind as a close approximation to others. I immediately thought of De Vinne, Roslindale, ITC Bernase, etc. but they don't really have the quirkiness of this lettering.