Seven Patents to Delight Your Steampunk Friends

Today’s post comes from Brooke Engerman, summer intern with the Office of Public and Media Communications.

The steampunk movement is most associated with a definitive style of fashion and design which incorporates aspects of Victorian fashion accessorized with industrial materials. Most steampunk-inspired pieces—be it costumes or objects—are fantastical in nature and pull inspiration from science fiction. In honor of the United States Patent and Trademark Office issuing their historic 10 MILLIONTH utility patent, take a look at some of our favorite steampunk-style patents!

Diving Dress

Why choose between a submarine and a dress when you can have both? This 1810 patent offers divers the convenience of being submerged underwater in a spacious tent-like dress.

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Diving Dress https://catalog.archives.gov/id/594916

 

Birthday Cake Dish

This birthday cake dish and candle holder would surely be the prize of any steampunk enthusiast’s collection. With its elaborate tiers and Victorian elements, this patent would be perfect for any birthday celebration.

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Birthday Cake Dish https://catalog.archives.gov/id/6277801

 

Coffin for Preserving Life

Pulling from Steampunk’s strong ties to science fiction, this 1845 coffin is designed to deliver air to its occupants when death is “doubtful.”

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Coffin for Preserving Life https://catalog.archives.gov/id/595517

 

Harp Guitar 

This 1831 patent features a design for a harp guitar. Steampunk enthusiasts often use pieces of various instruments in their designs, so we think this patent would make any collector proud.

 

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Harp Guitar https://catalog.archives.gov/id/594917

 

 

Flying Machine

Flying apparatuses are a mainstay of steampunk culture. Take a look at this patent from 1869! Perfect for crashing a party or escaping a villain’s lair in the sky.

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Flying Machine https://catalog.archives.gov/id/594412

 

Toy Gymnast 

This drawing features the plans for an 1876 toy gymnast, with a variety of gears and mechanisms that have inspired much of the steampunk fashion movement. It’s the perfect gift for the steampunk baby’s nursery.

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Toy Gymnast https://catalog.archives.gov/id/594393

 

Chicken goggles

Goggles are a classic part of the steampunk look. Whether your avian companion is traveling in your dirigible, or just hanging out in the backyard pecking at the dirt, your chicken will be ready for any kind of adventure.

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Chicken goggles https://catalog.archives.gov/id/7460045

 

 

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