Registered Trademark Symbols: Types, Rules and Real Examples

We see trademark symbols everywhere: on brand names, logos, websites, packaging, and advertising. Yet despite their constant presence, many people are unclear about what these symbols actually mean, when they should be used, and how to write them correctly.

This guide breaks down the most common trademark and copyright symbols - ™ (Trademark), ℠ (Service Mark), ® (Registered Trademark), and © (Copyright) - explaining their differences, their legal significance, and how to use them properly in real-world contexts.

Tip: If you ever struggle to type these symbols, you can simply copy them from this page. Bookmarking this article is often the easiest way to keep them handy.

How to Type Trademark and Copyright Symbols (™ ℠ ® ©)

How you write trademark symbols depends on your operating system and the software you’re using.

On Windows

You can use the following keyboard shortcuts:

• Alt + 0153 for the trademark symbol ™
• Alt + 0174 for the registered trademark symbol ®
• Alt + 0169 for the copyright symbol ©

In Microsoft Office

Microsoft Word and similar tools allow two easy options:

• Type (tm), (r), or (c) and autocorrect will often convert them automatically
• Use the Insert → Symbol menu option and select the symbol manually

On Mac

Mac users can type these symbols using:

• Option + 2 for the trademark symbol ™
• Option + R for the registered trademark symbol ®
• Option + C for the copyright symbol ©

How to Type the Service Mark Symbol (℠)

The ℠ (service mark) symbol is recognized by most word processors, but it doesn’t have a universal keyboard shortcut.

• In Microsoft Office: Insert it via Insert → Symbol
• On websites or browsers: use the HTML entity ℠

What are the Differences Between the TM, SM, R, C and P Symbols?

Trademark and copyright symbols do not create legal rights by themselves.
They serve as informational notices indicating how a name, logo, or work is being claimed or protected.

Their purpose is to signal how a name, logo, or work is being claimed or protected.

Below is a clear breakdown of what each symbol represents.

The ™ Trademark Symbol (and ℠ Service Mark)

The ™ symbol (short for trademark) is used to indicate that a word, logo, or slogan is being claimed as a trademark for products, even if it has not been officially registered.

The ℠ (service mark) symbol is used to indicate a trademark that identifies services rather than products.

Key points to understand:

• ™ and ℠ can be used without registration
• They signal a claim of trademark rights, not proof of registration
• Their legal effect depends on the country and legal system

In jurisdictions where trademark rights arise through use (such as the United States), these symbols are commonly used to indicate prior or ongoing trademark use.

A well-known example is Starbucks, which historically used the ™ symbol with its logo before completing registrations in certain markets.

These symbols are informational, not definitive legal protection.

The ® Registered Trademark Symbol

The registered trademark symbol ® indicates that a trademark has been officially registered with a trademark office and is legally protected in the country where it is used.

You may only use ® when:

• The trademark has been officially registered
• The registration is valid in the country where the symbol is used

Using ® incorrectly (for example, before registration or in a country where the mark is not registered) can expose you to legal penalties in some jurisdictions.

Important distinctions:

• ® applies to both goods and services
• It signals legally recognized trademark rights
• It strengthens enforcement by putting third parties on notice

Well-known brands such as McDonald’s and Adidas use the ® symbol to clearly indicate registered trademark status.

From a technical perspective, the registered trademark symbol corresponds to Unicode U+00AE and can also be inserted using the HTML entity ®, ensuring consistent display across digital platforms.

The © Copyright Symbol

The © symbol identifies original creative works protected by copyright, such as:

• Text, images, illustrations
• Software code
• Non-audio creative works

Its purpose is to notify the public that the work is protected and cannot be reproduced without permission.

However, it’s important to note:

• Since the Berne Convention, copyright protection exists automatically upon creation
• The © symbol is not required to obtain protection in most countries
• It is still widely used as a clear notice of ownership

In the European Union, copyright protection typically lasts 70 years after the author’s death, depending on the type of work.

The ℗ Symbol (Sound Recording Copyright)

The ℗ symbol identifies copyright protection for sound recordings and phonograms.

Its name comes from the word “Phonogram”, and it is used to identify copyright ownership in:

• Music recordings
• Audio-only works

Unlike ©, which covers written and visual works, ℗ signals protection over the recorded sound itself.

Where Should Trademark Symbols Be Placed?

There is no strict legal rule governing symbol placement, but common practice includes:

• Placing the symbol in the upper-right corner of the word or logo
• Positioning it at the same height, immediately to the right of the mark

The key is consistency and clarity. Overusing symbols throughout a text is generally unnecessary; most brands apply them at the first prominent mention.

When Should You Use the ® Symbol?

This point deserves special emphasis.

You should only use the ® symbol after your trademark is officially registered. Using it prematurely, including in a trademark application before approval, can lead to objections or legal issues.

Trademark offices may view premature use of ® as misleading or non-compliant with registration requirements.

Quick FAQs About Trademark Symbols

What is the difference between ™ and ®?

The ™ symbol can be used to claim trademark rights without registration, while the ® symbol may only be used once a trademark is officially registered with a trademark office.

Can I use the ® symbol before my trademark is registered?

No. The ® symbol should only be used after official registration. Using it before registration, or in countries where the mark is not registered, may be misleading and can result in legal issues.

Do trademark symbols create legal protection?

No. Trademark symbols do not create legal rights on their own. They serve as informational notices indicating how a name, logo, or work is being claimed or protected.

Where should trademark symbols be placed?

Trademark symbols are commonly placed in the upper-right corner of the mark or immediately after it. Most brands use the symbol at the first prominent mention rather than repeating it throughout the text.

From Symbols to Protection: Getting It Right

Trademark and copyright symbols may seem minor, but they play an important role in communicating legal status, ownership, and intent.

Understanding the differences between ™, ℠, ®, ©, and ℗ helps avoid misuse, reduces legal risk, and ensures your brand or creative work is represented correctly.

If you’re ready to register your trademark and use the ® symbol properly across different countries, you can explore our International Trademark Registration Services

And if you have questions about trademark symbols, registrations, or international protection, feel free to contact us, we’ll be happy to help!