Secret Symbols
Hidden marks and signs used by rogues, vagabonds, and thieves' guilds to communicate in plain sight.
Guild Marks
Thieves' guilds throughout the realms use secret symbols to mark territory, identify safe houses, warn of danger, and communicate with fellow guild members. These marks are often scratched into walls, drawn in chalk, or carved into wooden posts.
For D&D 5e: A Rogue with proficiency in Thieves' Cant can read and leave these marks. An Intelligence (Investigation) check DC 15 may be required to find hidden marks.
Dagger Mark
Member of the guild
IdentityCoin with Slash
Payment expected
CommerceOpen Eye
This place is watched
WarningClosed Eye
Safe from prying eyes
SafeCrossed Keys
Fence operates here
CommerceBroken Chain
Safe house for escaped prisoners
SafeHooded Figure
Assassin contact
ContactCrescent Moon
Best time to operate: night
InfoSun with Line
Guard patrol schedule
InfoSkull Mark
Death awaits trespassers
WarningRat
Informant in area
WarningSpider Web
Guild territory
TerritoryLock Symbol
Skilled locks - extra caution
InfoPouch Shape
Easy marks frequent here
ResourceCrown
Noble target
TargetHammer
Blacksmith can modify equipment
ResourceAle Mug
Tavern with guild connections
SafeFeather
Scribe for forged documents
ResourceShip
Smuggling route
RouteHorse
Quick escape available
EscapeCategory Legend
DM Tips
- • Place guild marks near the entrances of taverns, alleyways, or under bridges
- • Have NPCs reference "the marks" when giving directions to rogues
- • Create plot hooks by having players discover contradictory or unusual marks
- • Allow Rogues to leave their own marks to aid the party later
- • Use these symbols as puzzle elements in heist or urban adventures