“Yet another form of proof that may present difficulties in defining evidence is what Wigmore calls ‘autoptic proference.’ By this barbarism, the learned author was referring to those few cases in which it is possible to bring before the jury the material fact itself, rather than evidence of the fact.” 22 Charles Alan Wright & Kenneth W. Graham Jr., Federal Practice and Procedure § 5163, at 33 (1978).
autoptic proference
autoptic proference (proh-f[schwa]r-[schwa]nts). The presentation of an item for inspection by the court. See demonstrative evidence under EVIDENCE. [Cases: Criminal Law 404.45; Evidence 188. C.J.S. Criminal Law §§ 854–855; Evidence §§ 789–791, 794, 796.]