This unique, ornamental hammer was patented by Mitteldorfer Strauss of New York City, New York on January 10, 1928. Strauss’ hammer is a design patent, meaning the patent protects the way the hammer looks rather than the way it is used. Design patents last for 14 years and are non-renewable. The goat appears to be holding something in its mouth, which can be used as the striking end of the hammer. Its horns form the claw of the hammer. The bronze-head hammer was believed to have been given away as a premium with the purchase of a sack of flower, similar to receiving a prize from a cereal or Cracker Jack box. It could have also been used on small nails and nut shells. Billy Boy Laundry Detergents eventually repurposed the hammer as an item included in the purchase of blocks of their laundry detergent.
Hammer Highlight – Mitteldorfer Strauss Goat Head Hammer
