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Episode 564: The Signature : Planet Money The signature. We put it on checks, contracts, credit cards. It's supposed to say, "This is me." But where did the idea come from? And why are we still using it?

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Episode 564: The Signature

Episode 564: The Signature

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David Kestenbaum's signature David Kestenbaum/NPR hide caption

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David Kestenbaum/NPR

David Kestenbaum's signature

David Kestenbaum/NPR

Some people write a squiggle. Others just write an initial. One person draws a dude surfing.

Today on the show: the signature. It's supposed to say, "This is me." But where did the idea come from? And why are we still using it? We consult a rabbi, a lawyer and a credit card executive.

Note: This episode originally aired in August 2014.

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Planet MoneyPlanet Money

The Economy Explained