Parker
51
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Aero-metric or Aerometric Filler (or Vacumatic depending on specific sub-era, likely Aerometric given the color and era)
Condition
Good condition showing minor wear, patina, and light scuffing on the cap and body appropriate for age.
Estimated Value
$60 - $150 USD depending on exact filling system and working condition
Era
Vintage 1950s (Post-WWII era)
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Aero-metric or Aerometric Filler (or Vacumatic depending on specific sub-era, likely Aerometric given the color and era)
Body Material
Lucite (Acrylic resin)
Trim Material
Lustraloy (Brushed stainless steel cap)
Color / Pattern
Cedar Blue or Dove Grey (Appears to be the classic Cedar Blue or classic Grey shade common for Parker 51)
Cap Type
Slip Cap
Clip Design
Classic Parker Arrow clip
Barrel Shape
Streamlined Torpedo
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold (hooded nib)
Nib Size
Fine
Nib Type
Hooded, Rigid
Nib Condition
Appears clean and intact beneath the hood, fully functional and properly aligned.
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 137 mm capped, 122 mm uncapped, 150 mm posted, 11 mm diameter
Weight Estimate
Approximately 22 grams with cap, well-balanced
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1950s (Post-WWII era)
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Common
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Good condition showing minor wear, patina, and light scuffing on the cap and body appropriate for age.
Filling System Condition
Requires internal inspection, likely needs sac cleaning or replacement if rubber has stiffened with age.
Estimated Value
$60 - $150 USD depending on exact filling system and working condition
Special Features
Iconic hooded nib design engineered to prevent ink from drying out quickly, legendary aerodynamic styling.
Ink Recommendations
Parker Quink Blue or Black, Waterman Serenity Blue
Care Recommendations
Flush gently with lukewarm water. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners and do not soak the metal cap.
Interesting Facts
The Parker 51 is often cited by design experts as one of the most successful and well-designed industrial products of the 20th century.
Overall Assessment
A legendary vintage writing instrument embodying mid-century modern industrial design, prized for its reliability and unique hooded nib.