Safety Pin Day Date in the current year: April 10, 2024

A safety pin, also referred to as a baby pin, is a variation of the regular pin. Its main difference from the regular pin is that it includes a simple spring mechanism and a clasp. The clasp covers the sharp point of the pin and keeps it from opening. It simultaneously holds the pin in place and protects its user from being pricked by the sharp point.

The modern safety pin was invented by American mechanic Walter Hunt. He invented it in order to pay a $15 dollar debt to his friend. On April 10, 1849, Hunt received a US patent for his invention. The anniversary of the day when the patent was issued is informally celebrated as Safety Pin Day. Hunt sold his patent to W. R. Grace and Company, earning $400 (approximately $10,000 in 2008 dollars).

The design of the safety pin has not changed much since its invention. Safety pins can be used not only for practical purposes, but also as an accessory or jewelry. During the emergence of punk rock, they became associated with punk subculture.