Mechanical Paper Fasteners
Mechanical Paper Fastener
The first known mechanical paper fastener was handmade in the 18th century in France for King Louis XV. Each fastener was inscribed with the insignia of the royal court, as required. The growing uses of paper in the 19th century created a demand for an efficient paper fastener. On August 7, 1866, the Patent Novelty Mfg Co. patented the Novelty Paper Fastener. It loaded a single fastener at a time, and was used mainly to bind papers or books but also carpet, furniture, and boxes. The P.N. Mfg Co. made metal fasteners for the mechanical paper fastener in several sizes.