Levi Strauss Jeans 501 XX, Raw Denim w/ Lt. Brn. Overwash, NWOT, 46/34

While Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis introduced the blue jean in 1873, 1890 was the first year the 501 lot number was adopted. Levi Strauss & Co.’s patent for riveted clothing expired that same year, meaning that other companies could now also use rivets on clothing. To answer the coming competition, LS&Co. printed the inside pocket bag with information about the strength and originality of the XX overalls. 1890 was the year that the 501 number was first assigned to the famous pantslikely done because the company no longer had an exclusive patent, and also because it had a good-sized line of clothing by this time. It was easier for retailers to order their products by number rather than by a simple description, as had been done in the past. Any product made with the highest quality materials was given a lot number beginning with 5: 501 for the overall, 506 for the jacket, etc.