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Plate, License

Object number96.68.174

Date1898

MediumAluminum; Paint; Paper; Ink; Glue

Credit LineGift of Alcoa Corporation

DescriptionBicycle license made from rolled sheet of aluminum. Body is generally square-shaped with projection on left side to be attached to bicycle and folded back. Embossed text on front.Dimensions1.375 x 0.1 x 5.25 in. (3.5 x 0.3 x 13.3 cm)
InscriptionsEmbossed on body: "PGH. / 8025 / 1898"
MarksPaper label glued to back, typed in ink "1364".
Historical NotesA very early use of aluminum for an application with weather exposure. In addition to application served as a promotional device for use of aluminum where weather is a potential damaging factor. Aluminum does not rust like steel. Found in trunk of Arthur Vining Davis.Label TextUsed as an early promotion, this license showed off aluminum’s weather resistant features as opposed to steel’s tendency to rust.

Related person Arthur Vining Davis

Related institution Aluminum Company of America (1907 - 1998)

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