Mikrokirjoitetut

Mikrokirjoitetut, or microprinted text, refers to printed characters that are so small they are not legible at normal viewing distances. This form of text is commonly used as a security feature in currency, official documents, and high-security packaging, as well as a design element in some typography and art projects. The idea is to include readable text only when viewed under magnification, making it difficult to reproduce accurately with standard printing or scanning.

The concept emerged with the development of security printing in the 20th century, as designers and printers sought additional layers of protection against counterfeiting. Microprinting is typically integrated into borders, portraits, or other fine patterns on banknotes and identity documents. When viewed closely, the tiny characters reveal legitimate text; from a distance they may appear as a solid line or pattern, deterring casual forgery.

Techniques used to produce mikrokirjoitetut include offset printing, intaglio, and laser engraving, all of which can render very small type with high fidelity. The exact legibility depends on print quality, the typeface, and the scaling of the microtext. Verification often requires magnification tools, such as a loupe or digital zoom, to read the characters and assess authenticity.

Beyond security applications, mikrokirjoitetut are also employed in graphic design and art to create subtle textures or to convey a sense of precision and complexity. They are discussed in typography, printing technology, and security literature as a practical and aesthetic feature of modern print media.