904.02(c)(ii)    Specimens for Marks Comprising Color  

If color is a feature of the mark, or if the mark consists solely of color, the specimen must show use of the color.  37 C.F.R. §2.51; TMEP §807.12.  In such case, the applicant should submit color photographs of the specimen or other similar reproductions of the specimen in color so that the color is identifiable.

For all applications filed on or after November 2, 2003. If an applicant submits a color drawing, or a description of the mark that indicates the use of color on the mark, the applicant must claim color as a feature of the mark.  37 C.F.R. §2.52(b)(1); TMEP §807.07(a)(i).

If color is a feature of the mark and the applicant submits a specimen that is not in color or not in the appropriate color, the examining attorney will require the applicant to file a substitute specimen that shows use of the appropriate color(s).  See TMEP §904.05 regarding substitute specimens.

See also TMEP §1202.05(f) regarding specimens showing use of marks that consist solely of color.