The collection
Historical patents – known as “privileges” – are the precursors to patents and were issued by the Imperial and Royal Ministry of Commerce in the 19th century. Our collection contains around 99,000 descriptions of inventions dating from 1852 to 1899.
Our digital database of historical patents offers a unique insight into the technology of the time. Discover handwritten descriptions and beautifully colored drawings or take a look through our thematic collections.
The collection includes ingenious inventions such as Johann Puch’s folding bicycle and Nikola Tesla’s alternating-current motor. But there are also some rather quirky inventions such as the bath swing and a walking stick with a pedometer.
Dive into history with us!
