Indices : Terminology : Text Figures

Also called lowercase figures, or oldstyle figures, these number forms are designed to be used in running text. Text figures feature numerals that come to the x-height: 0,1,2; figures with descenders: 3,4,5,7,9; and ascending figures: 6, 8. Some varations of text figures may not fit this same scheme, but this is the norm.

See also Lining Figures.

Discussion:
What Sans Serifs Have Old Style Figures?
Lower Case Numbers in San Serif, Anyone?

Links:
FYTI: Oldstyle Figures