A two-dimensional matrix code containing dark and light square data modules, and a finder pattern of two bars of alternating dark and light square data modules on the perimeter of the symbol for indicating both orientation and printing density of the symbol, wherein all of the data modules are the same dimension and data is encoded based on the absolute position of the dark modules within the matrix, and inner and outer bars are provided along adjacent sides of the matrix code symbol, each bar having a width equal to the square data modules. In one embodiment, the inner and outer bars are solid. In another embodiment, the inner solid is bar and the outer bar is an encoding bar.