The first safety pins were made in Greece and Italy during the 2nd millennium BC, by doubling a straight bronze pin, and connecting one end to the other. During the early days, the Romans used safety pins as brooches for fastening their cloaks and robes.
It was in 1849 that the American inventor Walter Hunt introduced the modern day safety pins. However, his invention was accidental. After being issued a US patent, Hunt sold the patent to W. R. Grace and Company for $400.
Coming to buttons, from the 3rd millennium BC onwards, they were made from wood, bone, and shell in the Indus Valley civilization. Back then, buttons were used for decorative purposes. Hand-made from precious metals, glass, or even gems, buttons became symbols of rank and wealth.
It was during the 18th century that buttons were mass produced, using steel.
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