Conklin
Mercantile / Crescent Filler
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Crescent Filler
Condition
Fair to Good. Shows noticeable discoloration (oxidation/browning of hard rubber), brassing on the gold-filled trim, and patina appropriate for its age.
Estimated Value
$150 - $350 depending on full restoration status and functionality.
Era
Vintage 1910s-1920s
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Crescent Filler
Body Material
Hard Rubber (HR) chased overlay / Chased Vulcanized Rubber
Trim Material
Gold-Filled
Color / Pattern
Black hard rubber with distinctive chased pattern and metal overlay/cap
Cap Type
Slip Cap
Clip Design
Conklin patent clip with ball end
Barrel Shape
Cigar-Shaped / Tapered
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Fine
Nib Type
Flexible
Nib Condition
Fair. Appears intact with visible gold purity stamp and flexible tines, though it shows surface tarnish and needs careful inspection of the tipping material.
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 130mm capped, 120mm uncapped, 155mm posted; diameter 12mm
Weight Estimate
Lightweight, around 18-22 grams with a neutral balance point
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1910s-1920s
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Rare
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Fair to Good. Shows noticeable discoloration (oxidation/browning of hard rubber), brassing on the gold-filled trim, and patina appropriate for its age.
Filling System Condition
Unknown / Likely needs restoration (rubber sac inside likely perished due to age).
Estimated Value
$150 - $350 depending on full restoration status and functionality.
Special Features
Features the patented Conklin Crescent Filler mechanism and 'MERCANTILE' cap band engraving, representing early 20th-century innovative self-filling pen technology.
Ink Recommendations
Standard vintage-safe water-based fountain pen inks (e.g., Waterman Serenity Blue, Parker Quink)
Care Recommendations
Avoid soaking hard rubber in hot water to prevent severe discoloration (oxidation). Keep away from direct sunlight, and have the sac professionally replaced before attempting to fill.
Interesting Facts
The Conklin Crescent Filler was famously endorsed by literary figures like Mark Twain, who praised its inability to roll off desks and its ease of filling.
Overall Assessment
A charming and historically significant vintage Conklin safety/crescent-fill pen. While it shows age-related wear and oxidation typical of early hard rubber writing instruments, it is a prized collectible for vintage pen enthusiasts once restored.