Levi Strauss & Co. introduced the 501 jeans model name in 1890.
The 501 designation originated when Levi Strauss & Co. began assigning lot numbers to its products. The number 501 was used for the company’s famous copper-riveted waist overalls and eventually became the enduring name of the jeans. The model had already grown out of the patent-era workwear developed by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis.
The date is often confused with 1873, the year associated with the patent for riveted clothing. That earlier date marks a major technological and legal milestone, but it is not the year the 501 model name was introduced. The distinction between the patent and the later product designation is important.
The 501 later became one of the most recognizable jeans styles in the world. Its straight-leg silhouette, button fly and five-pocket construction helped establish a template that influenced generations of denim products.