All of the objects and symbols below are pretty common sights for most of us, but hardly anyone knows the real stories hiding behind them.
Sure, we know the pause button will stop whatever song or movie we're playing, but have you ever wondered how they came up with the two lines for the symbol in the first place? Or why the Statue of Liberty has exactly seven spikes sticking out of her crown?
I have to admit, I was shocked at how many of these ordinary things had deeper meaning without me ever having a clue. Several of them are even things I see on a daily basis and have just gotten so used to without even questioning their origin.
Take a look and you'll probably be pretty surprised by how much fascinating info you've been missing out on, too!
And don't forget to SHARE the unexpected facts with your friends on Facebook!
Thumbnail Photo: Pixabay / titidianita
1. Tiny Letters On Pennies
Victor David Brenner included his initials in his original 1909 design of the penny featuring Abraham Lincoln, placing the three letters on the reverse-side, but according to Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) it caused quite a controversy.
It was quickly removed and later replaced at the bottom of Abe's shoulder at a smaller size in 1918.
2. Pause Button Lines
The symbol is called a "caesura" and is frequently used to mark a silent break in poetry and sheet music.
3. Measuring Tape Black Diamonds
They don't appear on every type of measuring tape, but the diamonds are there to help contractors measure the proper placement of studs in a wall.
4. Red Stripes On Barber Shop Poles
In the Middle Ages, barbers were responsible for more than just trimming hair — they would also act as rudimentary surgeons who performed bloodletting.
According to the History Channel, the pole was used to represent the blood and bandages, and it's remained ever since.
5. Peace Signs
According to a CBS report for the 50th anniversary of the symbol back in 2008, it incorporates the Naval semaphore, their system of flag signaling, representing the letters "N" and "D" to stand for "total nuclear disarmament."
6. On/Off Switch Lines And Circles
Both symbols were derived from the binary number system, with "1" representing "on" and "0" representing "off."
7. Bluetooth Markings
You might have thought this was just a design choice to make it look cool, but according to the Smithsonian it's actually inspired by a Danish viking king named Harald Blåtand (which translates to "bluetooth").
8. Points On The Statue Of Liberty's Crown
Each of the spikes not only create a halo-effect on her crown, but are said to represent the seven continents across the globe.
9. Arrows On Gas Gauges
This is a handy indicator toward the side of your vehicle with the opening to your gas tank, so you don't accidentally pull up to the gas pump on the wrong side.
10. Letters On Dollar Bills
They indicate which Federal Reserve Bank the bill was printed at. The Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia explains that a bill marked with a "C" would be from the third of the 12 banks.
Were you surprised by any of the hidden meanings behind these symbols and objects? Be sure to SHARE with your friends on Facebook!
