some interesting type specimens

http://www.behance.net/gallery/SERIFATYPE/6207393

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Serifa/1457637

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Serifa-Typographic-Poster/1734167


good source for history of graphic design:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/111764736/A-History-of-Graphic-Design-Philip-B-Meggs