Nameplate/Masthead

My first example is from The Herald from Monterey, California.

Photo source: Newseum

They used an old style font which gives it a more professional feel to the publication. I think if they used a decorative font, people wouldn't take them as seriously. I'm not a big fan of the coupon right next to the masthead, but I'm sure in the age of advertising, this cost the advertiser a pretty penny which helped the publication.
However, with the two teasers, the photo and the coupon, the masthead looks a bit crowded. I do like the photo though because you immediately know they are featuring a golfer in the issue. It drew me to the story and I'm not even a fan of golf.

Next is from Orlando Sentinel from Orlando, Florida.

Photo source: Newseum

It's a really big masthead, but it has a lot of information in it. The first thing that drew me in were the colors. They work really well together. I love the swoopy thing underneath the name, because since they are based in Florida, I immediately think of the ocean.
This is a very clean layout. All of the text has room to breathe so it doesn't look clutter like the other masthead, but everything is readable. I like that they listed both the website and mobile website underneath the publication's name. I know sometimes when I read the paper, the only gadget I have available is my cell phone. Some publications include boxes next to the story directing people to exclusive online content, so this is a nice touch and shows they have new technologies on their mind.