Lot 144

Collection of Four Antique Dip Pen Holders & Drafting Tools Including Mother-of-Pearl Letter Opener, Circa Late 19th–Early 20th Century

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Lot 144
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Collection of Four Antique Dip Pen Holders & Drafting Tools Including Mother-of-Pearl Letter Opener, Circa Late 19th–Early 20th Century
Collection of Four Antique Dip Pen Holders & Drafting Tools Including Mother-of-Pearl Letter Opener, Circa Late 19th–Early 20th Century
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Collection of Four Antique Dip Pen Holders & Drafting Tools Including Mother-of-Pearl Letter Opener, Circa Late 19th–Early 20th Century

Current Bid: $10

(1 Bid)
by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

An interesting collection of four antique writing and drafting implements dating from the late nineteenth to early twentieth century, representing the refined craftsmanship associated with professional correspondence and technical drawing before the advent of modern fountain pens. The group includes a black hard rubber or early composition dip pen holder fitted with a white nib, a handsome mother-of-pearl handled letter opener or paper knife personalized "Chicago, Ill.," a carved mother-of-pearl dip pen holder with gilt brass ferrule retaining its original steel nib, and a slender ivory-colored celluloid or bone handled mechanical writing or drafting implement with decorative metal ferrule. Several of the steel nibs retain partially legible maker's markings, reflecting the quality manufacturers that supplied professional artists, draftsmen, architects, and clerks during the Victorian and Edwardian periods. The mother-of-pearl examples display beautiful natural iridescence, while the brass fittings exhibit an attractive aged patina developed over decades of careful use. Writing instruments of this type are increasingly appreciated for their historical importance and decorative appeal, offering insight into the tools of everyday business, education, and artistic practice during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. An appealing collection for collectors of antique writing instruments, ephemera, Victorian desk accessories, drafting equipment, or early office antiques.

  • Circa: Circa 1890–1925.
  • Condition: Overall good antique condition consistent with age and use. Surface wear, oxidation to the steel nibs and brass fittings, scattered scratches, and expected handling wear throughout. Mother-of-pearl handles remain attractive with minor age-related wear. Sold as a decorative antique grouping; functionality has not been tested.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50