The History and Meaning of the Mercedes-Benz Logo

The Mercedes-Benz logo, or often known as the Mercedes-Benz star, is one of the most iconic symbols of the automotive world. With such a long and impressive legacy, Mercedes-Benz has undergone many changes and evolutions over the years, so where does the star come from? Learn about the brand’s history at Keyes European.

The Beginning of Mercedes-Benz

To understand the history of the Mercedes-Benz logo, you’ll want to go back to the beginning of the company—or companies, actually. In 1910, Benz and Cie. applied for a trademark for the logo of a laurel wreath with the name Benz in the center. The previous year, Daimler‑Motoren‑Gesellschaft had applied for protection on what is now known as the “star”.

According to the legend, the star was a signature used by Gottlieb Daimler on a postcard he once sent his wife in the late 1800s. On that postcard, he wrote that the symbol would “shine over our triumphant factories”. More than a decade later, the two iconic symbols would be combined into the earliest iterations of the Mercedes-Benz logo.

A Partnership is Formed

Both Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler were forerunners in the development of the automobile, coming to internal combustion engine technology independently in the late 1800s and starting their companies a few years later. With economic shifts at the end of the first quarter of the 20^th century, they merged forces, and in 1926, officially became Daimler-Benz AG, producing vehicles under the Mercedes-Benz name. This led to a combining of the laurel and star decals into the logo Mercedes-Benz is known for today.

See the Mercedes-Benz Logo in Action in Van Nuys, CA

The Mercedes-Benz name is a standout part of automotive history. If you want to join into the legacy, you can take your first step at Keyes European. Find the luxurious and iconic model you’ve been waiting for at our dealership.