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The first known patent for a bent-wire paper clip was granted to Samuel B. Fay.
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William Middlebrook patented a paper clip-making machine, which standardized and facilitated mass production.
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The Gem paper clip, a simple looped design, became widely popular in the United Kingdom and remains one of the most recognizable designs to date. -
Paper clips started being produced in various sizes and designs, moving away from just the standard looped design.
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The vinyl-coated and plastic-coated paper clips emerged, offering variations in colors and materials.
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Specialty paper clips with different shapes and functions started to appear, catering to specific needs such as larger capacities or specialized uses.
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Eco-friendly materials and reusable paper clips gained attention, aligning with the growing environmental awareness.
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Continual innovation and variations in shapes, sizes, and functions persist, including multifunctional paper clips, customizable options, and clips designed for specific tasks or industries.