The Phaistos Disc is the only example of its kind, as no other
inscription bearing similarly shaped signs has been found. It was found
in the ancient city of Phaistos in Southern Crete. It is thought to
date to around 1700 BC (from associated archaelogical context), thus
contemporary with Linear A. Because no other similar artifacts have ever
been found anywhere in the Crete, it is thought that the object was
foreign and brought in from another place. The place of its origin is
extremely speculative, although subtle clues may exist in the highly
pictorial signs on the disc. A sign depicts a helmet with crest, which
was used later by Philistines. Another sign depict a structure similar
to sarcophagus used by the Lycians of Asia Minor.
Because there is essentially no variation between different copies of
the same symbol, it is very likely that stamps where used to create
these highly detailed signs. While not really a printed work, perhaps
the Phaistos Disc can be thought of the earliest typewritten work.
You can Shift-click the image to download it.
Kevin and Keith Massey claim to have partially deciphered the Phaistos
disk by comparing with the Byblian script. To judge for yourself,
click here.
For more info on the site of Phaistos itself, you can try the following
links:
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