Parker
51 (Vintage)
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Aerometric Filler
Condition
Good to Very Good (Visible patina and micro-scratching on the cap)
Estimated Value
$80 - $150 USD (Depending on internal sac condition and cap dings)
Era
Vintage (c. 1948 - 1960s)
Pen Specifications
Pen Type
Fountain Pen
Filling System
Aerometric Filler
Body Material
Lucite (Acrylic Resin)
Trim Material
Gold-Filled (1/10 12K Gold Filled cap)
Color / Pattern
Black barrel with a 'Custom' gold-filled cap
Cap Type
Slip Cap (Clutch Ring)
Clip Design
Art Deco Arrow Clip
Barrel Shape
Torpedo / Cigar-Shaped
Nib Details
Nib Material
14K Gold
Nib Size
Fine (Estimated based on standard production)
Nib Type
Hooded Nib
Nib Condition
Hidden/Hooded; requires inspection but likely intact given the durable design
Dimensions
Size / Dimensions
Capped length approx. 138mm; Barrel diameter approx. 12mm
Weight Estimate
Approx. 20-22 grams; excellently balanced when posted
Heritage & Origin
Era / Period
Vintage (c. 1948 - 1960s)
Country of Origin
USA
Rarity
Common (The Parker 51 was one of the most successful pens in history)
Condition & Value
Overall Condition
Good to Very Good (Visible patina and micro-scratching on the cap)
Filling System Condition
Likely functional (Aerometric '51s' are famous for their longevity)
Estimated Value
$80 - $150 USD (Depending on internal sac condition and cap dings)
Special Features
The hooded nib design minimizes ink evaporation and protects the nib
Ink Recommendations
Parker Quink Blue-Black, Waterman Serenity Blue, or J. Herbin Perle Noire
Care Recommendations
Avoid modern shimmering or high-sheen inks; flush occasionally with room temperature water
Interesting Facts
The Parker 51 was marketed as 'The World's Most Wanted Pen' and was development to use high-alkaline 'Superchrome' ink
Overall Assessment
A quintessential mid-century icon, this Parker 51 with a gold-filled cap is a reliable and elegant daily writer.