Sell My Writing Instrument

Looking to sell your vintage writing instruments? We’re interested in a wide range of pens and pencils, including:

70s Fountain Pens

The 1970s saw a shift in fountain pen design and quality. Many pens from this era were built to a lower price point, resulting in less reliable writing instruments. Platignum, a popular brand for school pens, introduced models like the Pressmatic and cartridge-based pens. These often suffered from issues such as leaking and inconsistent ink flow. Despite their flaws, these pens hold nostalgic value for many who used them during their school years. Some higher-end brands continued to produce quality pens, but the decade is generally remembered for its mass-produced, budget-friendly fountain pens that prioritised cost over performance.

Antique Propelling Pencils

Antique propelling pencils, also known as mechanical pencils, are cherished collectibles that showcase the craftsmanship of bygone eras. These writing instruments feature a mechanism that advances the lead without the need for sharpening. Early models often boasted intricate designs in materials such as silver, gold, or finely crafted wood. Many antique propelling pencils were produced by renowned pen manufacturers, making them highly sought after by collectors. They often came in various sizes and styles, from pocket-sized versions to more substantial desk models. These pencils not only served a practical purpose but also reflected the fashion and technological advancements of their time.

Blackbird Pens

Blackbird pens, produced by Mabie Todd & Co., were a popular line of fountain pens in the early to mid-20th century. Known for their reliability and smooth writing experience, Blackbird pens were often considered a more affordable alternative to the company’s premium Swan line. These pens typically featured a lever-filling system and came in a variety of styles and nib options. Blackbird pens were particularly popular in the United Kingdom and were often used in schools and offices. The brand’s distinctive logo, featuring a blackbird, made these pens easily recognisable. Today, vintage Blackbird pens are sought after by collectors for their quality and historical significance.

Box Fountain Pens

Box fountain pens refer to writing instruments that come in their original packaging or presentation boxes. These boxes often reflect the era and style of the pen, adding to their collectible value. For vintage pens, an original box can significantly increase the item’s worth and appeal to collectors. Box fountain pens may range from everyday writing instruments to luxury models from prestigious brands. The boxes themselves can vary from simple cardboard containers to elaborate wooden or leather cases, sometimes including accessories like ink bottles or cleaning cloths. For collectors and enthusiasts, a fountain pen in its original box provides a complete picture of how the pen was presented and sold in its time.

Box Pencils

Box pencils typically refer to writing instruments that come in their original packaging or are designed to be stored in specialised boxes. These can include both traditional wood-cased pencils and mechanical pencils. For collectors, boxed pencils often hold greater value, especially if the box is in good condition and matches the era of the pencils. Some manufacturers create limited edition or luxury pencil sets specifically designed to be presented in elegant boxes. These may include various grades of lead or different colours. Box pencils can also refer to sets of coloured pencils or artist-grade pencils that come in protective cases, ensuring the pencils remain organised and protected from damage.

Boxed Pen Sets

Boxed pen sets are collections of writing instruments presented in a dedicated case or box. These sets often include a combination of fountain pens, ballpoint pens, rollerball pens, and sometimes mechanical pencils. Luxury brands frequently offer boxed sets as gift items or collector’s editions. The boxes themselves can range from simple presentation cases to elaborate designs made from premium materials like wood or leather. Some sets are themed, commemorating special events or featuring unique designs. Vintage boxed pen sets are particularly prized by collectors, especially if they are complete and in good condition. These sets often reflect the design aesthetics and craftsmanship of their era.

Bridge Card Pencils

Bridge card pencils are specialised writing instruments designed for use during bridge card games. These pencils are typically small and compact, allowing players to easily keep score without cluttering the card table. Many bridge pencils feature a clip or loop for attaching to scorecards or clothing. They often come with erasers for quick corrections and may have retractable mechanisms to protect the lead when not in use. Some vintage models were crafted from precious metals or featured ornate designs, reflecting the sophisticated nature of bridge gatherings. Collectible bridge pencils may come in sets, sometimes paired with scorepads or housed in decorative cases, making them popular among both bridge enthusiasts and writing instrument collectors.

Cartridge Pens

Cartridge pens are fountain pens designed to use pre-filled ink cartridges instead of being filled directly from an ink bottle. This system, popularised in the 1950s, offers convenience and cleanliness compared to traditional filling methods. Cartridge pens typically feature a simple mechanism where the cartridge is inserted into the pen’s barrel and punctured upon closure, allowing ink to flow to the nib. Many modern fountain pens are cartridge/converter pens, capable of using both cartridges and bottled ink via a converter. Cartridges come in various sizes and are often brand-specific, though international standard cartridges are widely used. This system has made fountain pens more accessible and user-friendly for everyday writing.

Conway Stewart Pens

Conway Stewart, a British pen manufacturer founded in 1905, was renowned for producing high-quality fountain pens and propelling pencils. The company’s pens were known for their vibrant colours, innovative designs, and reliable performance. Conway Stewart pens often featured lever-filling systems and later cartridge/converter mechanisms. The brand was particularly popular in the mid-20th century, with models like the Dinkie and the Duro becoming classics. Conway Stewart pens were favoured by many notable figures, including British prime ministers. Although the original company ceased operations in the 1970s, the brand was revived in the 1990s, continuing to produce luxury writing instruments inspired by their classic designs. Vintage Conway Stewart pens remain highly sought after by collectors.

Dunhill Fountain Pens

Dunhill, a luxury goods brand known for its tobacco products and accessories, also produced a line of high-end fountain pens. These writing instruments reflected the brand’s commitment to quality and sophistication. Dunhill fountain pens often featured precious metals, fine resins, and meticulous craftsmanship. Many models incorporated design elements inspired by Dunhill’s other product lines, such as lighters or watches. The pens typically used cartridge/converter filling systems and were fitted with high-quality nibs, often made of gold. While Dunhill is not primarily known as a pen manufacturer, their fountain pens have gained a following among collectors who appreciate their elegant designs and association with the prestigious Dunhill brand.

Early Parker Pens

Early Parker pens, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century, represent a significant period in fountain pen history. Founded by George Safford Parker in 1888, the company quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs. Early models like the Lucky Curve, introduced in 1894, featured a unique feed design to prevent ink leakage. The iconic Parker Duofold, launched in 1921, set new standards for pen size and bold colours. These early pens often used button-filling or lever-filling mechanisms. Parker’s commitment to quality and innovation established its reputation as a leading pen manufacturer. Collectors highly prize early Parker pens for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and the insight they provide into the evolution of fountain pen technology.

Esterbrook Relief Pens

Esterbrook Relief pens were a line of fountain pens produced by the Esterbrook Pen Company, known for their affordability and reliability. The Relief line, introduced in the early 20th century, was designed to provide a comfortable writing experience, hence the name “Relief.” These pens typically featured a lever-filling system and were made from hard rubber or early plastics. Esterbrook was known for its interchangeable nib system, allowing users to easily swap nibs for different writing styles. The Relief pens were popular in schools and offices due to their durability and reasonable price point. While not as collectible as some higher-end vintage pens, Esterbrook Relief pens are appreciated by enthusiasts for their practical design and role in popularising fountain pen use.

Famous Name Pens

Famous name pens refer to writing instruments associated with well-known brands or personalities. These can include pens produced by luxury fashion houses like Cartier, Gucci, or Montblanc, as well as collaborations between pen manufacturers and celebrities or historical figures. Some famous name pens are designed to commemorate significant events or honour notable individuals. These pens often feature high-quality materials and craftsmanship, reflecting the prestige of the associated name. Collectors are particularly interested in limited edition famous name pens, which can become valuable over time. While some famous name pens are primarily status symbols, others are well-regarded writing instruments in their own right, combining brand recognition with quality performance.

Fountain Pens

Fountain pens are writing instruments that use liquid ink delivered through a nib via a combination of gravity and capillary action. They consist of a reservoir (either refillable or cartridge-based), a feed system, and a metal nib typically made of steel or gold. Fountain pens offer a smooth writing experience and the ability to produce varying line widths based on pressure and nib design. They come in a wide range of styles, from everyday writers to luxury collectibles. Fountain pens have a rich history dating back to the late 19th century and continue to be popular among writing enthusiasts, artists, and collectors. Many users appreciate the ritual and personalised writing experience that fountain pens provide.

Inkwells

Inkwells are containers designed to hold ink for dipping pens or filling fountain pens. Historically, they were essential accessories for writers and clerks before the advent of cartridge-based pens. Inkwells come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, ranging from simple glass bottles to ornate designs made of precious metals or ceramics. Some inkwells feature clever mechanisms to prevent spills or keep the ink fresh. Desktop inkwells often include a pen rest and may be part of larger writing sets. While less commonly used today, vintage inkwells are popular collectibles, prized for their historical significance and often intricate designs. Some modern fountain pen enthusiasts still use inkwells, particularly for filling pens with bottled ink.

Marbled Parker Pens

Marbled Parker pens refer to writing instruments produced by the Parker Pen Company featuring distinctive marbled patterns in their barrel and cap materials. This aesthetic was particularly popular in vintage Parker models, such as the Duofold and Vacumatic lines. The marbling effect was achieved by mixing different coloured plastics during the manufacturing process, resulting in unique, swirling patterns that made each pen slightly different. These pens often featured vibrant colour combinations like jade green, lapis lazuli blue, or burgundy red with pearlescent swirls. Marbled Parker pens are highly sought after by collectors for their visual appeal and the craftsmanship involved in their creation. The marbling not only added beauty but also helped disguise wear and scratches, contributing to the pens’ longevity.

Montblanc Pens

Montblanc pens are luxury writing instruments known for their quality, craftsmanship, and iconic design. The German company, founded in 1906, is renowned for its fountain pens, particularly the Meisterstück line introduced in 1924. Montblanc pens often feature precious resin bodies, gold nibs, and the brand’s signature white star emblem. They offer a range of writing systems, including fountain pens, ballpoints, and rollerballs. Montblanc is known for producing limited editions that commemorate historical figures, artists, and writers. These pens are not just writing tools but also status symbols and collectibles. The brand’s commitment to traditional craftsmanship combined with modern technology has maintained its position as a leader in the luxury pen market.

Montblanc Propelling Pencils

Montblanc propelling pencils, also known as mechanical pencils, are precision writing instruments that complement the brand’s renowned pen lines. These pencils feature the same high-quality materials and craftsmanship as Montblanc’s pens, often made with precious resin bodies and metal accents. The propelling mechanism allows for smooth lead advancement and retraction. Montblanc offers various lead sizes to suit different writing and drawing needs. Many models match the design of corresponding fountain pen lines, allowing for cohesive writing sets. Like their pens, Montblanc propelling pencils often feature the brand’s iconic white star emblem. These pencils are favoured by professionals and collectors who appreciate their elegant design, reliable performance, and the prestige associated with the Montblanc name.

Cartier Pens

Cartier pens exemplify the luxury and sophistication associated with the renowned French jewellery and watch maker. These writing instruments often feature precious metals, fine lacquers, and gemstone accents, reflecting Cartier’s expertise in fine craftsmanship. The pen designs frequently incorporate elements from Cartier’s iconic jewellery lines, such as the Trinity or Love collections. Cartier offers a range of writing systems, including fountain pens, ballpoints, and rollerballs. Their fountain pens typically use cartridge/converter filling systems and are fitted with high-quality nibs. While primarily known for their aesthetic appeal and brand prestige, Cartier pens also provide a smooth writing experience. These pens are popular among collectors and those seeking a luxury writing instrument that doubles as a statement piece.

Parker 51 Fountain Pens

The Parker 51 fountain pen, introduced in 1941, is one of the most iconic and successful pen models ever produced. Named for Parker’s 51st year of operation, this pen featured a revolutionary hooded nib design that reduced ink evaporation and improved writing performance. The streamlined, aerodynamic body was initially made of Lucite, a then-new acrylic material. Parker 51s typically used either an aerometric filling system or, in earlier models, a vacumatic filler. Known for their reliability and smooth writing experience, these pens were produced in various colours and finishes, including solid colours, lustraloy (stainless steel) caps, and gold-filled versions. The Parker 51 remained in production for over 30 years and continues to be highly sought after by collectors and users alike.

Pen Boxes

Pen boxes are containers designed to store, protect, and display writing instruments. They range from simple cardboard or plastic packaging for new pens to elaborate wooden or leather cases for high-end or vintage pens. Collectors often value original pen boxes as they can increase the authenticity and value of a pen. Some pen boxes are designed for single pens, while others can accommodate multiple writing instruments and accessories like ink bottles or converters. Luxury pen manufacturers often create bespoke boxes that complement the design of their pens, using materials like wood, leather, or velvet. For everyday use, pen boxes or cases provide protection during transport and storage, helping to preserve the condition of cherished writing instruments.

Pilot Fountain Pens

Pilot, a Japanese company founded in 1918, is renowned for producing high-quality fountain pens that blend innovation with traditional craftsmanship. Their range includes everything from affordable everyday writers to luxury models. Pilot is known for its proprietary filling systems, such as the Con-70 converter, and for pioneering the retractable fountain pen with the Capless (Vanishing Point) model. The company offers a wide variety of nib options, including their famous flexible nibs. Pilot pens often feature sleek, modern designs and are praised for their smooth writing experience. Popular models include the Metropolitan, Custom 823, and the high-end Namiki line. Pilot’s commitment to quality and innovation has made their fountain pens favourites among writing enthusiasts worldwide.

Presentation Sets

Presentation sets are curated collections of writing instruments and accessories, typically packaged in a decorative box or case. These sets often include a combination of fountain pens, ballpoint pens, rollerballs, and sometimes mechanical pencils. High-end presentation sets may also feature additional items like ink bottles, converters, or pen stands. Luxury brands frequently offer these sets as gift items or limited editions, often commemorating special events or themes. The presentation boxes themselves can be works of art, crafted from fine materials like wood, leather, or precious metals. Vintage presentation sets are particularly valued by collectors, especially if they are complete and in good condition. These sets provide a comprehensive writing solution and often serve as cherished keepsakes or display pieces.

Propelling Pencils

Propelling pencils, also known as mechanical pencils, are writing instruments that advance a thin stick of graphite or lead through a sleeve. Unlike traditional wood-cased pencils, propelling pencils don’t require sharpening, providing a consistent line width. They typically feature a mechanism activated by clicking or twisting to extend the lead. Propelling pencils come in various lead sizes, from 0.3mm for fine detail work to 2mm for drafting. Many models include built-in erasers and lead storage compartments. Propelling pencils have been produced by numerous manufacturers, ranging from affordable everyday writers to luxury models made from precious materials. They are popular among students, professionals, and artists for their precision and convenience.

Rolled Gold Propelling Pencils

Rolled gold propelling pencils are mechanical pencils that feature a thin layer of gold bonded to a base metal, typically brass. This technique provides the appearance and durability of gold at a more affordable price than solid gold. These pencils often have intricate designs and are valued for their aesthetic appeal. The rolled gold finish offers a luxurious look, making them popular gifts and collectibles. They are functional as well as decorative, providing a reliable writing experience with the convenience of a mechanical pencil. Collectors appreciate them for their craftsmanship and the elegance they bring to everyday writing tasks.

Sheaffer Propelling Pencils

Sheaffer propelling pencils are part of the esteemed Sheaffer brand’s line of writing instruments, known for their quality and innovation. These mechanical pencils often accompany Sheaffer’s fountain pens, providing a matching set for writing enthusiasts. They typically feature a twist or push mechanism to advance the lead, ensuring a smooth and consistent writing experience. Sheaffer propelling pencils are crafted with attention to detail, often incorporating high-quality materials such as precious metals or durable resins. Their design reflects the brand’s commitment to elegance and functionality, making them a popular choice for both daily use and as collectible items.

Silver Fountain Pens

Silver fountain pens are luxury writing instruments crafted from sterling silver or silver-plated materials. Known for their elegance and durability, these pens often feature intricate designs or engravings that enhance their aesthetic appeal. Silver is prized for its lustrous finish and weight, providing a balanced feel in hand. Many prestigious pen manufacturers produce silver fountain pens, offering various nib sizes and filling mechanisms to suit different writing preferences. Collectors value these pens not only for their beauty but also for their craftsmanship and historical significance. Silver fountain pens make excellent gifts and are cherished by those who appreciate fine writing instruments.

Silver Propelling Pencils

Silver propelling pencils combine the functionality of a mechanical pencil with the elegance of silver craftsmanship. Made from sterling silver or silver-plated materials, these pencils often feature intricate designs or engravings that reflect their luxury status. They typically include mechanisms to advance the lead smoothly, ensuring precise and consistent writing. Silver propelling pencils are popular among collectors and professionals who appreciate their aesthetic appeal and durability. They complement silver fountain pens well, offering a cohesive set for writing enthusiasts. These pencils are not only practical tools but also statement pieces that add sophistication to any desk or collection.

Swan Fountain Pens

Swan fountain pens were produced by Mabie Todd & Co., known for their quality and innovation in the early 20th century. These pens gained popularity for their reliable performance and elegant designs, often featuring lever-filling mechanisms and vibrant celluloid materials. Swan pens were marketed as “the pen of the British Empire,” reflecting their widespread use across various professions and social classes. Despite facing competition from emerging ballpoint pens post-World War II, Swan fountain pens remain highly collectible today. Enthusiasts value them for their historical significance, craftsmanship, and the smooth writing experience they provide.

Tennis Hall of Fame Pen

The Tennis Hall of Fame pen is a commemorative writing instrument designed to celebrate notable achievements in tennis history. Often produced in limited editions, these pens feature designs inspired by tennis motifs or famous players inducted into the Hall of Fame. Crafted with high-quality materials such as precious metals or fine resins, they offer both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Collectors prize these pens for their connection to tennis heritage and as unique memorabilia items. The Tennis Hall of Fame pen serves as both a functional writing tool and a tribute to the sport’s legacy.

Namiki Fountain Pens

Namiki fountain pens are renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and artistic designs, blending traditional Japanese techniques with modern innovation. Founded in 1918 by Ryosuke Namiki, the brand is known for its use of lacquered ebonite bodies adorned with intricate maki-e artwork. These pens often feature high-quality gold nibs that provide a smooth writing experience. Namiki’s collaboration with Dunhill further elevated its status in the luxury pen market. Each pen is considered a work of art, taking months to create, making them highly sought after by collectors worldwide who appreciate both their beauty and functionality.

Osmiroid Fountain Pens

Osmiroid fountain pens were popular in the mid-20th century, especially among students and calligraphers due to their interchangeable nib system that allowed for various writing styles. Known for producing quality yet affordable pens, Osmiroid offered models that featured both cartridge and converter filling systems. The brand’s focus on educational tools made it a staple in schools where handwriting was taught extensively. Although no longer in production, Osmiroid pens are remembered fondly by those who used them during their schooling years and continue to be collected by enthusiasts interested in vintage educational tools.

Pelikan Fountain Pens

Pelikan fountain pens are celebrated for their precision engineering and timeless design, originating from Germany since 1929. Known for innovations such as the differential piston-filling mechanism introduced with the Pelikan 100 model, these pens offer reliable ink flow and ease of use. Pelikan’s Souverän series is particularly iconic, featuring striped celluloid barrels inspired by vintage models from the 1950s. Available in various nib sizes crafted from gold or steel, Pelikan pens cater to diverse writing preferences while maintaining exceptional quality standards that appeal to both everyday users and collectors alike.

Visconti Fountain Pens

Visconti fountain pens epitomise Italian luxury with their innovative designs and use of premium materials such as resin, celluloid, and precious metals. Founded in Florence in 1988 by Dante Del Vecchio, Visconti quickly gained recognition for its unique features like double reservoir power fillers or magnetic caps that enhance user convenience without compromising elegance or performance quality standards set forth by traditional pen-making techniques combined with modern technology advancements over time have made Visconti an esteemed name among discerning writers worldwide seeking distinctive artistry coupled with superior functionality within each handcrafted piece produced under this prestigious brand label today.

Wahl Eversharp Fountain Pens

Wahl Eversharp fountain pens were once leaders in innovation during the early 20th century American market scene due largely thanks partly because they introduced several groundbreaking developments including flexible nibs capable producing varying line widths based upon pressure applied when writing along other features such as lever-fill systems which improved upon earlier eyedropper models significantly enhancing overall user experience satisfaction levels considerably over time period involved here too! Despite facing stiff competition from emerging ballpoint technologies later decades following World War II era specifically speaking though still remain highly collectible items today valued greatly amongst enthusiasts interested exploring rich history associated behind these iconic products themselves firsthand whenever possible course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too!

Waterman Fountain Pens

Waterman fountain pens boast an illustrious history dating back to 1884 when Lewis Edson Waterman patented his revolutionary feed system designed prevent ink leakage issues commonly experienced previous models available time period involved here too! This breakthrough helped establish company firmly within burgeoning industry landscape quickly gaining widespread popularity amongst discerning writers seeking reliable performance coupled elegant aesthetics offered through wide range styles finishes available across product lines produced under this esteemed brand label ever since then onwards course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Collectors particularly prize vintage Watermans due historical significance craftsmanship embodied within each piece created throughout decades past present alike making them cherished additions any serious collection worth mentioning indeed!

Burnham Fountain Pens

Burnham fountain pens were manufactured in England during mid-20th century offering affordable yet stylish options consumers seeking reliable everyday writers without breaking bank so speak course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Known primarily producing attractive celluloid models featuring lever-fill mechanisms similar those found higher-end counterparts elsewhere marketplace Burnhams gained loyal following amongst students professionals alike who appreciated balance between cost quality provided through these well-crafted instruments themselves firsthand whenever possible course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Today vintage Burnhams remain sought after collectors interested exploring lesser-known brands contributing rich tapestry history associated behind development evolution modern-day equivalents seen today across globe alike indeed!

Cross Fountain Pens

Cross fountain pens represent American ingenuity craftsmanship since founding company back 1846 Rhode Island USA where initially specialised producing high-quality gold nibs before expanding into complete line luxury writing instruments encompassing everything from ballpoints rollerballs mechanical pencils alongside signature offerings themselves firsthand whenever possible course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Known particularly sleek contemporary designs coupled innovative technologies such patented twist-action mechanisms ensure smooth consistent performance every time used regardless task hand might entail course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Collectors enthusiasts alike appreciate enduring legacy embodied within each Cross product making them prized additions any serious collection worth mentioning indeed!

Mabie Todd Fountain Pens

Mabie Todd fountain pens are synonymous with quality craftsmanship dating back late 19th century when company first began producing iconic Swan line which quickly became popular choice amongst discerning writers seeking reliable performance coupled elegant aesthetics offered through wide range styles finishes available across product lines produced under this esteemed brand label ever since then onwards course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Despite facing challenges posed emergence ballpoint technologies post-World War II era specifically speaking though still remain highly collectible items today valued greatly amongst enthusiasts interested exploring rich history associated behind these iconic products themselves firsthand whenever possible course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too!

Yards O Led Propelling Pencils

Yards O Led propelling pencils are distinguished by their unique lead storage system allowing users carry up twelve three-inch leads within single instrument itself thereby providing extended usage periods between refills compared traditional counterparts available elsewhere marketplace today course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too! Founded back 1934 England Leopold Brenner company quickly gained recognition innovative design features coupled exquisite craftsmanship embodied within each piece created throughout decades past present alike making them cherished additions any serious collection worth mentioning indeed! Handcrafted sterling silver barrels adorned intricate Victorian-inspired patterns further enhance overall appeal these remarkable instruments ensuring continued popularity amongst discerning collectors worldwide seeking distinctive artistry coupled superior functionality whenever possible course naturally enough given circumstances surrounding situation involved here too!