Yes, Ludwig did use rivets on some kits. I haven't found the reason in my copy of "The Ludwig Book" but I do remember a conversation about the rivets on this or another forum.....

the Ludwig Book page 54 right hand side a third of the way down, explains why they used rivets.

I hear that this was to combat the separation of the wrap at the seam since the wrap was prone to shrinking... but, yes totally original for a short time on the 6 ply shells.

Yep late 70s, I have a set like that.

someone was smokin crack at the factory when they approved that Idea...

... true ... i've seen a few kits like that since then... never liked the idea, never liked the look... Lame

I have a 1979-80 kit with rivets. My wrap is still fine and holding great. I agree I had rather have had them just glued. I think that may have been the reason for them going to rivets. Something about the glue? but my drums are Silver Sparkle so the rivets are not very noticeable. Still great sounding drums.

I've seen a lot of these drums. I play a 26" Gold Sparkle bass that is riveted, & has stayed intact. Unfortunately it's common to see the wrap shrink & tear away from the rivets.

I toured the Ludwig plant in the early 80's,and they were doing the rivet thing then.

I stopped the tour and asked what was up with the rivets,and the tour lady said they were getting their pearl from Italy,and it kept shrinking on them...hence the rivets,