J. Fred Muggs was a chimpanzee mascot for NBC's Today Show from 1953-1957. The show began in 1952 with host Dave Garroway but ratings were not great and the addition of J. Fred boosted ratings and helped secure advertisers. J. Fred first appeared January 28, 1953 and became a regular within a year. At some point a second chimp referred to as J. Fred's girlfriend began appearing and her name was Phoebe B. Beebe. They acquired such status that the Ideal Toy Company made a doll of each and this pair of 1-5/8" buttons are examples of those that were pinned on the dolls. Both buttons carry the name of the toy company as well as "Copyright 1955 J. Fred Muggs Enterprises." Both buttons have a single 1/8" paint scratch and the white background on J. Fred has just the slightest trace of tanning to it but both still display bright and glossy. A scarce pair.