The 1930s was a significant era for design, marking a shift from elaborate Art Deco motifs to the streamlined, geometrical forms of the Streamline Moderne movement. This period in design history introduced some of the most iconic and timeless logos that have endured throughout the years. Here are some of the best logos from the 1930s.

1. NBC Peacock (1926 – evolved in 1930s) 

Originally created in 1926, the NBC logo was refined in the 1930s with a more stylized peacock to represent its use of color broadcasting technology. This logo has evolved over time but remains one of the most iconic insignias in television history.

2. Warner Bros. Shield (1929 – refined in 1937) 

Although first appearing in 1929, Warner Bros.’ classic shield logo took on a more modern appearance in the late ’30s. With its strong, bold lines and sense of grandeur, it perfectly encapsulated the Golden Age of Hollywood.

3. British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) (1932) 

The BBC’s coat of arms logo, designed in 1932, featured elements that represented various aspects of broadcasting: lightning bolts for wireless transmission, eagles for speed, and a globe for international reach. The clean lines and simplicity of this emblem made it a classic.

4. Shell (1904 – streamlined in the 1930s) 

The Shell logo began as a literal shell drawing and transformed into its iconic red and yellow scallop shell during the ’30s. Its simplicity and high-contrast colors made it extremely recognizable and enduring.

5. Volkswagen Beetle (1938) 

The Volkswagen Beetle’s logo was introduced along with the car in 1938, featuring a simple roundel with “VW” at its center—an image that immediately suggested precision engineering and approachability.

These logos are not only remarkable examples of design from their time but also serve as influential precedents that continue to inform branding and corporate identity today. Their adaptability and enduring popularity underscore their foundational roles in creating timeless visual communication strategies.