An encoded card having a layer of light-transmitting elements such as fibers extending between two edges, the fibers being individually capable of transmitting magnetic radiant energy, in the visible, ultraviolet or infrared spectral regions. The ends of the energy-transmitting fibers along at least one edge of the card are irregularly arranged in a linear information-related pattern which is decoded into discrete information such as numbers, letters or words by transmitting electromagnetic radiation, such as visible or invisible light through the fibers and sensing and decoding the transmitted pattern. The card is encoded either by selectively placing the fibers; or by cutting, removing, or otherwise impairing the energy-transmitting ability of selected fibers.