An edited output string is a function of a numeric value, program-specifiable locale elements, and a format control value. The numeric value is of some decimal type. Each of the locale elements has a default value that can be replaced or explicitly overridden. A Picture object is composed from a String value, known as a picture String, that serves as a template for the edited output string, and a Boolean value that controls whether a string of all space characters is produced when the number's value is zero. An occurrence of a '9' Character in the picture String represents a decimal digit position in the edited output string.
String affects the form of the sign in the edited output string.
A currency control Character in the picture String indicates an occurrence of the currency string in the edited output string. In some contexts it is treated as part of a floating sign, floating currency, or zero suppression string. A picture String is of type Standard.