What symbol became the central image of the McDonald's logo in 1962?

The Golden Arches became the central image of the McDonald's logo in 1962.

The arches began as architectural features on early McDonald's restaurants. Richard and Maurice McDonald used large yellow arches in the design of their San Bernardino restaurant, helping the building stand out to passing motorists.

In 1962, designer Jim Schindler combined the two arches into a stylized letter M for the corporate logo. This transformed an architectural feature into a globally recognizable brand mark. The arches have remained one of the most durable elements of McDonald's visual identity.

A common mix-up is that the arches were originally designed as the letter M. Historically, they were first separate parts of the restaurant building and were later joined visually in the logo. McDonald's has changed its restaurant architecture and advertising styles many times, but the arches continue to identify the company worldwide.