Paperclip 129 years ago
1892
The Gem paper clip was introduced and began to be advertised. It was never patented, but became the best-selling paper clip in the United States.
1899
Norwegian inventor Johan Vaaler patented his own version of a paper clip in Germany.
1901
Vaaler patented his paper clip design in the United States. However, Vaaler's version was less functional and practical than the Gem paper clip, and was never manufactured or marketed.
1904
Cushman & Denison applied for a trade mark for the Gem clip, stating that they had used the Gem brand name for clips since 1892.