Did a book published in 1973 contain the blueprints for some of today's most recognisable company logos? The book Trademarks & Symbols, Vol. 2 by Yasaburo Kuwayama has caught the attention of designers and history buffs, revealing logos that eerily resemble those used by contemporary brands like AMD, Google and Chase Bank.

While the book is an extensive collection of geometric and pictorial designs, it's unlikely that modern designers are simply copying old logos. Geometric shapes are universal, and it's logical that similar shapes could emerge independently in different designs.

However, the coincidence is intriguing and highlights the enduring power of minimalist, geometric design in branding. Even today, we see brands with similar logos, suggesting that some design principles are timeless.

If you're looking for inspiration for your own brand, the book might still offer some valuable insights. It's currently selling for over $2,000 on Amazon, making it a rare find for most designers. The nearest contemporary equivalent is Jens Müller's Logo Beginnings and Logo Modernism, which are highly recommended for their in-depth exploration of logo design.