1. A method of reproducing a check comprising: receiving at a computer an image representing a check and including a first portion that includes an image of codes in a MICR code line and a second portion that includes at least an image of a signature; the computer identifying a sequence of the codes in the MICR code line; and printing a reproduced check by: printing, in a clear band area, the identified codes using ink and MICR fonts; and printing, outside the clear band area, at least the second portion of the image; wherein the reproduced check is a negotiable instrument suitable for automatic processing by a banking system.