Vintage Smiley Face Charm

I can't help but smile back when I see a smiley face, especially one made of solid 14k yellow gold like this pendant. I've loved this image since I was a kid and I think it's always an appropriate statement to make.

Details: Approximately 3/4" in diameter. Marked for 14k on the back and hung from a fine 16 1/2" 14k cable chain. Total necklace weight approximately 4 grams.

Condition: In excellent condition with a slight vintage patina and a couple of light marks.

History: A commercial artist named Harvey Ball is credited with inventing the image in 1963. Incredibly, he never applied for a trademark, which allowed the image to be reproduced by anyone, on anything, everywhere; by 1971 the smiley face was considered an cultural icon. Ball never voiced regret about not securing ownership of his design and is quoted as saying: "It never bothered me. I figured if I make the world a little happier, OK, fine"

Right on Mr. Ball!