Post #204853 by MauiTiki on Thu, Dec 29, 2005 11:00 AM

Here is my understanding of copyright on these type of things. Before 1978 (I think) to copyright your art you needed to file paperwork with the library of congress. Your copyright was good for 14 years after which it could be renewed for 14 more years. This means anything produced before 1950 is public domain. Because of Mickey Mouse things have changed since 1978. (they had to change the rules so Mickey wouldn't become public domain) One of those things is that you no linger need to file your designs with the library of congress, everything is copyrighted the minute it is signed or completed by the artist. However registering work is still recommended. I'm not sure of how long but copyrights last a whole lot longer now.