Science Inventions
The Safety Pin

Some science inventions have roots in ancient history. The safety pin, for instance, was originally invented by the Mycenaean people in the 13th and 14 BC. They used them in a similar manner to our modern day safety pin.

The Myceaneans called their invention a fibula. Over the centuries the invention was forgotten. Then one day Walter Hunt needed to pay off a debt to a friend. He decided he would invent something to pay off his friend.

Walter Hunt used a piece of brass wire that was about 8 inches long for his new invention. He made a coil in the center of the wire so it would open up when released. He also designed a clasp at one end that shielded the sharp edge from the user. He drew pictures of his inventions and had it patented. After receiving the patent on his new invention he sold it to W.R. Grace and Company for $400.

He then paid off his $15 debt to his friend and kept the $385 for himself. W.R. Grace and Company made millions from Walter Hunts invention. Over the years he invented many other things. You might search on the internet for more science inventions made by this American mechanic who lived from 1796-1859.

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