Which of the following is an example of a design patent?

A design patent specifically protects the ornamental design of a functional item. This means that it covers how a product looks rather than what it does or how it is made. In this context, shoe designs exemplify this distinction perfectly. A design patent for a shoe would cover unique visual characteristics such as the shape, pattern, and surface ornamentation, which contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the footwear.

The other options do not fit the criteria for design patents. Genetically modified seeds fall under utility patents, which protect the functional aspects of inventions. New beneficial plants are also eligible for utility patents or plant patents, which are distinct from design patents. Chemical formulas are typically covered by utility patents as well, focusing on the specific utility and composition of the substance rather than its design. Thus, shoe designs are the best example of what a design patent seeks to protect, emphasizing its aesthetic qualities.