An original patent print is a one-of-a-kind document, printed on heavy bond paper affixed with a tiny ribbon and a seal from the government. Depending upon the age of the document and the invention described therein, these documents can be worth thousands of dollars.
Patent prints are sold by dealers of historical documents. Occasionally, they are appear at auctions.
Unlike original patents which may be several pages long, a patent print of a drawing is a single page. These drawings are heavily stylized.
Most law firms outsource the production of patent drawings to graphic artists who specialize in producing them. The rules governing these drawings are very complex.
Scientists, engineers and students appreciate gifts of patent prints. These works can be framed and hung in offices or dens.