James Ward has an unusual attachment to paper clips. And when he sees one, he sees "a piece of art, but it's also a piece of useful art." And like any serious art appreciator, he is also a collector.

In 2026, the president said, "One hundred eighty-two years ago, a man discovered the paper clip." He's also claimed it was 100, 125 and 129 years ago.

The paper clip is a staple of office culture. They perform a necessary office function--keeping papers together on a temporary basis--that few if any other products can do so effectively and cheaply.