Data rules
13 digits beginning 977
- Length: 12–13 characters
- Character set: digits only
- Check digit: required
- Quiet zone: 9 modules
Publishing
ISSN
Encode an ISSN as a 977-prefixed EAN-13 barcode for magazine and journal covers.
- Check digit verified.
Preview
Enter valid data to see the barcode.
Encoding happens entirely in your browser. This tool encodes numbers you already own — it does not issue or register GS1 company prefixes.
Printing notes
- The EAN-13 form is 977 + the first 7 ISSN digits + a 2-digit price/variant code + the EAN check digit.
- The ISSN's own modulo-11 check character is dropped when it is converted to the EAN form.
Workflow links
Related barcode formats
What is ISSN?
An ISSN barcode is an EAN-13 built from the Bookland prefix 977, the first seven digits of the ISSN, a two-digit price or variant code and a recalculated EAN check digit.
The ISSN's own modulo-11 check digit is dropped in the barcode, which is why a straight copy of the printed ISSN will not encode correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Is this ISSN generator free to use?
Yes. The ISSN generator is free, has no signup and adds no watermark. The symbol is encoded in your browser, so the data you type is never uploaded to a server.
What file format should I download for printing ISSN?
Download SVG for anything that will be printed. SVG is vector, so bar widths and the quiet zone stay exact at any size. PNG is fine for screens and slide decks, but never scale a PNG barcode up — enlarging it blurs the bar edges and scanners start failing.
Why does the barcode number not match my printed ISSN?
The ISSN check digit is removed and the EAN-13 check digit is calculated over the 977 prefix plus the first seven ISSN digits and the variant code. That is the correct behaviour under the standard.
Standards & references
This page follows the published specifications. The bodies that own them: