Pelikan

400

Fountain Pen

Pelikan 400

Filling System

Piston Filler

Condition

Good (visible brassing on trim and surface wear)

Estimated Value

$250 - $400 USD

Era

Vintage (c. 1950-1956)

Pen Specifications

Pen Type

Fountain Pen

Filling System

Piston Filler

Body Material

Celluloid (Barrel) and Hard Rubber/Resin (Cap and Knob)

Trim Material

Gold-Plated

Color / Pattern

Tortoise Shell Brown Striped

Cap Type

Screw Cap

Clip Design

Signature Pelikan Beak clip

Barrel Shape

Cylindrical with tapered ends

Nib Details

Nib Material

14K Gold

Nib Size

Medium (Estimated based on common period examples)

Nib Type

Semi-Flex Semi-hooded

Nib Condition

Good, showing standard tipping and alignment for age

Dimensions

Size / Dimensions

Approximately 125mm capped, 121mm uncapped

Weight Estimate

Lightweight, approx 15 grams

Heritage & Origin

Era / Period

Vintage (c. 1950-1956)

Country of Origin

Germany

Rarity

Uncommon (Tortoise shell is more desirable than green striped)

Condition & Value

Overall Condition

Good (visible brassing on trim and surface wear)

Filling System Condition

Assumed functional, piston knob appears intact

Estimated Value

$250 - $400 USD

Special Features

Translucent striped barrel for ink level monitoring

Ink Recommendations

Pelikan 4001 Royal Blue or Waterman Serenity Blue

Care Recommendations

Avoid harsh chemicals; hand wash with cool water only; do not soak cap set with metal clip

Interesting Facts

The Pelikan 400 was a revolutionary model that established the brand's dominance in the post-war European market.

Overall Assessment

A classic icon of German engineering, highly sought after by collectors for its expressive nib and timeless tortoise aesthetics.

Identified on July 18, 2026