Helvetica is one of the most popular typefaces of all time. It was created by Max Miedinger in 1957 for the Haas foundry of Switzerland (the name is stemmed from Helvetia, the Latin name for Switzerland).

The design is based upon the grotesques of the late 19th century, however new refinements put it in the sans serif sub-category of neo-grotesque. Shortly after its intro, the Stempel foundry purchased the initial Helvetica typeface and established a complete series of weights. In the 1960s Helvetica concerned the United States, where positioning standards varied; Mergenthaler Linotype copied the Stempel series and then included several new versions of the style. Helvetica is an all-purpose type style that can provide practically any message plainly and effectively.

The condensed and compressed Helvetica styles are exceptional for display screen applications such as newspaper or newsletter headings, signboards, and advertising.

The standard design of Helvetica Rounded is the exact same as the style of the standard Helvetica typefaces. Created in 1980, it differs only in the stroke endings, which are rounded rather than squared off. The general impact of this display type is more spirited and friendly than its conventional relative.


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