Union Mfg. Co.
Safety Fountain Pen / Promotional Pen
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Eyedropper / Safety (retractable nib)
Condition
Fair to Good. Heavy discoloration (oxidation) of the hard rubber to an olive-brown tone, typical of vintage ebonite exposed to light and age.
Estimated Value
$50 - $150
Era
Vintage 1910s-1920s
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Eyedropper / Safety (retractable nib)
Body Material
Hard Rubber (Ebonite)
Trim Material
None
Color / Pattern
Black (oxidized to brown/olive)
Cap Type
Slip Cap
Clip Design
Clipless
Barrel Shape
Flat-Top Cylindrical
Nib Details
Nib Material
Gold
Nib Size
Fine
Nib Type
Flexible
Nib Condition
Appears intact with decent tipping, though minor alignment checks are recommended before writing.
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Approximately 125mm capped, 115mm uncapped
Weight Estimate
Lightweight, approximately 12-15 grams
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage 1910s-1920s
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Uncommon
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Fair to Good. Heavy discoloration (oxidation) of the hard rubber to an olive-brown tone, typical of vintage ebonite exposed to light and age.
Filling System Condition
Untested, requires cork replacement or seal restoration if it is a true safety mechanism.
Estimated Value
$50 - $150
Special Features
Imprinted with 'UNION MFG. CO. COSHOCTON. O.', indicating it was likely an advertising specialty or promotional pen made by the Union Advertising Company.
Ink Recommendations
Standard washable fountain pen inks (avoid harsh iron gall or permanent pigment inks in vintage sacs/systems).
Care Recommendations
Keep away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent further hard rubber degradation; avoid soaking the ebonite body in water.
Interesting Facts
Coshocton, Ohio was a major hub for the American advertising specialty industry in the early 20th century, producing customized promotional items including specialized hard rubber pens.
Overall Assessment
A charming historical artifact from the early 20th-century American promotional pen industry, ideal for vintage pen collectors interested in advertising history.