When Johann Vaaler PATENT his paper clip in 1901, therealready BE similar designs on the books. William Middlebrook of Waterbury, Connecticut patented his design in 1899. Cornelius Brosnan of Springfield, Massachusetts patented his Konaclip in 1900.

So, who was first? Well, it THINK to be Johann Vaaler. DRAW of his design date to early 1899, but since Norway had no patent law at the time, he had to seek patent rights in Germany and the US in the FOLLOW years.

Johann Vaaler was born on 15 March 1866 in Aurskog, Norway. Known as an innovator in his YOUNG, he graduated in electronics, science and mathematics. He was employed by the OWN of a INVENT office when he invented the paperclip in 1899.

Several designs followed the original. Only a few remain, such as the Ideal, Non-Skid, Owl and Gem. The first double-oval clip, the Gem, was launched in early-1900 by Gem Manufacturing Ltd of England.