Parker
"51" Vacumatic
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Vacumatic Filler
Condition
Very Good - minor micro-scratching consistent with age, plating intact
Estimated Value
$100 - $250 depending on functionality and exact date code
Era
Vintage 1940s (World War II era)
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Vacumatic Filler
Body Material
Lucite (Methacrylate)
Trim Material
Gold-Plated
Color / Pattern
Black with double cap band
Cap Type
Slip Cap
Clip Design
Classic Parker Arrow clip with open diamond at the top
Barrel Shape
Streamlined, Torpedo
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Fine
Nib Type
Hooded, Semi-Hooded
Nib Condition
Likely good, well-aligned tipping hidden under the hood
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 138 mm capped, 126 mm uncapped, 154 mm posted; 12 mm diameter
Weight Estimate
22 grams, well-balanced
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1940s (World War II era)
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Common
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Very Good - minor micro-scratching consistent with age, plating intact
Filling System Condition
Requires inspection; diaphragm likely needs replacement if rubber has perished
Estimated Value
$100 - $250 depending on functionality and exact date code
Special Features
Iconic arrow clip, aerometric/vacumatic historical significance, hooded nib design
Ink Recommendations
Parker Quink Blue or Black, avoid heavy pigment or high-sheen inks
Care Recommendations
Flush with clean water regularly; do not soak the plastic barrel; restore the vacumatic filling system carefully
Interesting Facts
The Parker 51 was introduced in 1941 (hence '51' for the company's 51st anniversary) and is frequently cited as one of the best-designed pens of the 20th century.
Overall Assessment
A legendary vintage fountain pen that represents a pinnacle of mid-century industrial design and reliable writing performance.