The Maxim logo was drawn by Dave Farey. If it looks similar to the typeface Trajan, it's because it was also based on inscriptions on the Trajan column. Dave revealed in one of the talks he gave at TypeCon that it was right there in the stone:
That’s interesting, but still - the logo looks more like Trajan Bold (font) than the original engraving. ;-)
There are differences, though. So, you’re right about custom, Mark.