The system includes an electronic label (1) and a data terminal (6). The electronic label (1) is provided with a device for the emitting of electromagnetic waves (8) fixed to a ring (2) of the bottom of the protective bell (5). The data terminal (6) is coupled to a detachable read/write head (7) that can be inserted, as desired, into the bell (5) directly facing the label (1) bearing ring (2) to transmit information elements between the data terminal (6) and the label. The system may be used for the automatic identification of gas cylinder type articles.