DIN mittelschrift is a
Sans-serif, or
grotesque typeface-
family of much debated origin. It is widely claimed to have originated during the early german
nazi-administration. Rumour has that it was used on the
railroad signs leading to
concentration camps. Its name is derived from german standardization institute,
DIN, and it is in widespread use in
Germany and
Holland on roadsigns (
eg on the
Autobahn), public buildings
etc. It is closely related to
DIN engschrift.
It is a highly applicable typeface, that lends itself well to all uses where a well-designed and unambigous
type is required. It is also quite stylish with some very nice details and a strong geometrical influence. It has a lot more personality than other common
typefaces such as
Helvetica or
Arial. For examples of
DIN mittelschrift, see the works of
Dutch designer Paul Ouwerkerk on www.prototype-editions.com.