Signs and Wonders: 50 Intriguing Symbolism and Facts to Astonish You

The 'XXX' mark on alcohol bottles in cartoons holds significance. Originally denoting beer strength by breweries, 'X' indicated the weakest, while three 'XXX' symbols signified the strongest.

A gin pennant, also known as a gin flag or drinking pennant, is a maritime flag. When flown on a ship, it extends an open invitation to other ships' officers for onboard drinks.

Fire hydrant colors serve as indicators of water pressure rather than mere decoration.

The arrow symbol (→) emerged relatively recently. While sporadically used in the 18th century, arrow symbols gained widespread usage only in the late 19th century. Pointing hand symbols (☞) were prevalent for centuries before the invention of the arrow symbol.

Blue lights in Amsterdam's Red Light District indicate prostitutes who are not technically female (or born as such).

The inverted cross, associated with Satanist and anti-religion groups, is the Cross of St. Peter, a Christian symbol symbolizing humility and unworthiness in comparison to Jesus.

Sea monsters on maps originally marked uncharted territories.

Copyleft is a legal license allowing free usage and modification of work. It even boasts a symbol—a rotated copyright mark.

The KISS band altered their logo while performing in Germany due to the resemblance of their S's to the Nazi SS emblem.

After Ireland's independence, the government intended to adopt the traditional Trinity College harp as a national emblem. Guinness had trademarked the harp decades earlier, leading the government to embrace a mirrored image instead.