ISSN
The EAN-13-based identification number for serials — journals, magazines, and newspapers — with a 2-digit issue add-on.
ISSN Specification
| Character set | Digits 0-9 only |
| Data length | 8-digit ISSN expanded to 13 EAN digits; plus optional 2-digit issue add-on |
| Check digit | ISSN uses Mod 11 (X possible); the EAN-13 carrier uses Mod 10 |
| Density | Same as EAN-13 plus EAN-2 add-on |
| Module width (X-dimension) | Nominal 0.33 mm X at 100% magnification |
| Print ratio | Variable-width bars and spaces (EAN structure) |
| Magnification | 80%-200% of nominal |
| Quiet zone | 11X left / 7X right |
| Standard | ISO 3297 (numbering); GS1 General Specifications (symbol) |
| Origin | ISSN International Centre (Paris/UNESCO), 1975 |
| Sample data | 0311-175X 00 17 |
Try It: Generate a ISSN Barcode
This live generator is preconfigured for ISSN. Adjust size, colors, and text — then download as PNG or SVG. Free, no signup, all encoding happens in your browser.
What Is ISSN?
The ISSN (International Standard Serial Number, ISO 3297) is an eight-digit identifier for continuing resources: journals, magazines, newspapers, and ongoing series. In retail distribution it becomes a 13-digit EAN by prefixing 977, appending two filler digits (usually 00), and recomputing the Mod 10 check digit. On newsstand copies a 2-digit EAN add-on typically carries the issue number, so the barcode identifies both the title and the specific issue.
The ISSN identifies the serial as a whole — not a particular issue, not the publisher, not the format (print and electronic versions take different ISSN variants, print vs e-ISSN). Libraries use it for cataloging, claiming, and interlibrary loan; subscription agents and newsstand distributors key their logistics on it. Alongside ISBN and ISMN it completes the family of ISO identifiers that ride on EAN-13 barcodes.
Common Applications
- Newsstand magazines and newspapers
- Library serials cataloging and claiming
- Subscription agency distribution and tracking
Related Barcode Types
The 13-digit retail point-of-sale barcode used on consumer products worldwide outside North America.
A 2-digit add-on barcode beside EAN-13/UPC on magazines and newspapers, typically carrying the issue number.
The book trade's EAN-13 — an ISBN-13 product number, usually with a 5-digit price add-on.
The EAN-13-based identification number for printed music — scores, sheet music, and parts.
ISSN FAQ
How does an 8-digit ISSN become the 13-digit barcode?
Take the ISSN digits, drop its Mod 11 check digit, prefix 977, append two filler digits (commonly 00), then compute a new Mod 10 EAN check digit. Example: ISSN 0311-175X → EAN 9770311175005. Some publishers use the two filler digits as a price or edition code instead of 00.
Does the same ISSN cover the print and online edition?
No. Print and electronic continuing resources are separate media and take separate ISSN (print ISSN and e-ISSN), linked through the ISSN Register. The Linking ISSN (ISSN-L) was introduced to identify the whole title across media for catalog deduplication.