Zodiac Killer Symbols / Cipher Shirt

The Zodiac Killer is believed to have committed his first known murder in 1968 and continued to taunt authorities and the public with letters, often including bizarre symbols and ciphers, until at least 1974.

The Zodiac’s first major cipher, known as the Z408 cipher, was sent in a letter to the San Francisco Chronicle in 1969. This 408-character cipher is famous for its complex use of symbols, which include both familiar letters and mysterious shapes. For over 50 years, the cipher was thought to be an unsolvable puzzle. In December 2020, a team of cryptographers finally cracked the code, revealing a disturbing message: “I HOPE YOU ARE HAVING LOTS OF FUN IN TRYING TO CATCH ME THAT WASNT ME ON THE TV SHOW WHICH BRINGS UP A POINT ABOUT ME I AM NOT AFRAID OF THE GAS CHAMBER.” The Zodiac’s use of this phrase, which seems to mock authorities’ efforts, added to his chilling reputation as a killer who relished in the fear and chaos he caused.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Zodiac’s ciphers is the use of symbols and the way they seem to reference both astrological and occult themes. For example, in several letters, the Zodiac included a cross-circle symbol, which some believe is a representation of the astrological symbol for Saturn. This symbol, alongside the cryptic nature of the killer’s messages, suggests that he may have been trying to convey a deeper, possibly philosophical message, or perhaps he simply enjoyed the idea of confounding those who were trying to decode his actions and identity. His inclusion of these symbols was a way of communicating that went beyond traditional criminal behavior.

Another cipher that stumped investigators was the Z340 cipher, sent in a letter to the San Francisco Chronicle in 1969. The 340-character puzzle remained unsolved for over 50 years, until in 2020, a team of cryptographers decoded it. The decrypted message read: “I HOPE YOU ARE HAVING LOTS OF FUN IN TRYING TO CATCH ME THAT WASNT ME ON THE TV SHOW WHICH BRINGS UP A POINT ABOUT ME I AM NOT AFRAID OF THE GAS CHAMBER.” While this message was more personal and less threatening than previous ones, it once again highlighted the Zodiac’s desire for attention and his sense of superiority over law enforcement. The cryptic nature of his ciphers also fueled public paranoia, with many feeling that the Zodiac was always one step ahead.

The Zodiac Killer’s connection to astrology is not limited to his symbols. In a 1970 letter to the San Francisco Chronicle, the killer claimed that he had been inspired by the astrological signs of his victims, further deepening the mystery of his motivations. He mentioned that his crimes were not random, but instead carefully chosen based on cosmic forces or fate. This idea of being guided by celestial bodies suggested a darker, more ritualistic aspect to his killings. Whether or not the Zodiac truly believed in astrology, it’s clear that he enjoyed toying with the public’s fascination with the stars and the unknown.

Despite the Zodiac Killer’s twisted sense of humor and taunting messages, the true meaning behind his symbols and ciphers remains elusive. Some researchers have speculated that the killer may have intentionally embedded false clues or distractions within his messages, leading investigators and amateur sleuths down false trails. This could explain why some ciphers, like the Z340, appeared unsolvable for so long. Other experts believe that the Zodiac may have had a hidden agenda, using his symbols and ciphers as a form of communication with a larger, secretive community or to create a personal mythology around his identity.

Interestingly, there is also a theory that the Zodiac Killer’s symbols and ciphers were meant to serve as psychological warfare rather than as literal puzzles. By using codes, symbols, and references to astrology, he was manipulating the media and law enforcement, ensuring his notoriety while creating an atmosphere of dread and uncertainty. The Zodiac took pleasure in the fact that he could remain a mystery for so long. His messages were not just about taunting police, but about cementing his place in history as an unsolvable enigma. In this way, the symbols and ciphers may have been just as much about the power of fear and control as they were about any deeper meaning.

How it's made

The unisex tshirt blank for adults this tee is based on is a Gildan 64000. Made with ethically grown and harvested ring-spun US cotton, this is a lightweight fabric (4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²)) in a modern unisex cut. The classic fit with the crew neckline deliver a clean, versatile style that can match any occasion, whether formal or semi-formal.

Shoulders are reinforced with twill tape, there are no side seams for a smoother fit, and the ribbed-knit collar helps prevent curling. All shirts feature a pearlized, tear-away label for total wearing comfort.

Solid colors are 100% cotton, while heathers and sport grey use polyester blends for added durability. Note that due to the fabric properties, the White color variant may appear slightly off-white rather than bright white. 2 year warranty in EU and Northern Ireland as per Directive 1999/44/EC.

Machine wash instructions: cold (max 30C or 90F), with similar colors, do not bleach. Tumble dry: low heat. Iron, steam or dry: low heat. Do not dryclean.

Size guide