How many signs were used in the classical Egyptian hieroglyphic system?

During the classical period of Egyptian hieroglyphic writing, the system utilized approximately 700 signs. This number remained relatively constant for more than 2,000 years, though the total count of signs increased significantly during the late period (beginning about 600 BCE) as scholars introduced new forms.12

These signs functioned through a combination of logograms, phonograms, and determinatives to represent words, sounds, and meanings. Despite the flexibility and potential for innovation within the system, the use of these signs was always governed by established conventions.31