Dogecoin Foundation Denied Trademark for Design of Gold Circular Medallion
The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has declined the Dogecoin Foundation, Inc.’s application to trademark a design of a gold circular medallion featuring the iconic Shiba Inu dog and the letter “D”. This decision is seen as a reinforcement of the decentralized ethos of the cryptocurrency.
Main Breakdowns:
– USPTO cites multiple grounds for denial, including the mark being “generic for the applicant’s services”.
– The mark is considered “merely descriptive” of the applicant’s services rather than distinguishing them.
– The mark is seen as a universal symbol that does not function as a trademark or service mark.
– Evidence provided by the Dogecoin Foundation, Inc. is deemed insufficient to prove acquired distinctiveness.
– Comparison with Ethereum is dismissed due to differences in ownership.
DOGE Community Reacts
The decision has been praised by the cryptocurrency community, particularly Dogecoin enthusiasts, as it maintains the decentralized nature of Dogecoin. Prominent community members have expressed their approval on social media.
Hot Take
While the USPTO’s decision is not final, the denial of the trademark reinforces the decentralized ethos of Dogecoin. This decision sets a legal precedent and prevents any single entity from claiming exclusive rights to its symbols. It remains to be seen how the Dogecoin Foundation, Inc. will respond to the refusals and what potential legal challenges lie ahead.
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