The Original Kermit Puppet National Museum of American History

This Kermit the Frog puppet was created by Jim Henson in 1955 for Sam and Friends. It is the first Kermit puppet, and it is made from Jim Henson’s mother’s old spring coat and a pair of Jim’s blue jeans. Henson used ping pong balls for the eyes.

Puppets from Jim Henson's television show Sam and Friends, including the original Kermit (C), are seen on display during a donation ceremony at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History in Washington

Sam and Friends – The Early Days of The Muppets: Exploring Jim and Jane Henson's First TV Show” Puppet Forum on 3/29

Kermit the Frog Comes Home

Puppetry In America': Why Puppets Still Appeal in a Changing World

Muppets on display at the Smithsonian - Deseret News

Original Muppets donated to museum

Meet the Muppets National Museum of American History

Miss Piggy joins Kermit, other muppets in Smithsonian, Entertainment

After 27 years, Kermit the Frog is getting a new voice

National Museum of American History - Euan's Guide

Smithsonian National Museum of American History - WanderDisney

The Muppets Take the Smithsonian, Arts & Culture

Miss Piggy joins Kermit the Frog in Smithsonian collection