In this note we consider the axially symmetric indentation of a transversely isotropic layer resting on a rigid foundation. The corresponding half-space problems both for isotropic and transversely isotropic materials have been solved previously (see (l), (2), (3), p. 455) and, more recently, the present problem has been solved for isotropic materials in (4) and (5) using methods different from that given in this paper. In § 2 the problem is reduced to the solution of a Fredholm integral equation of the second kind. In § 3 and subsequently the case of incomplete penetration by the punch, when the radius of the circle of contact is less than that of the end face of the punch, is considered. Finally, in §4 the results are illustrated by considering a hemispherically ended punch.