Antique Sampson Mordan & Co. White Metal Sliding Propelling Pencil
Description: A fine antique white metal sliding propelling pencil by S. Mordan & Co., marked “S. MORDAN & Co. MAKER.”on the barrel. This elegant example features an intricate engine-turned pattern and a decorative finial with foliate detailing. The mechanism twists to advance the lead, and the extending body section slides out to full length. No lead is included.
Brief History of the Maker: Sampson Mordan & Co. were renowned London silversmiths and inventors of the first patented propelling pencil in 1822. Their mechanical pencils were produced in a wide range of decorative styles and materials, and they remain highly collectible examples of 19th-century craftsmanship and design ingenuity.
Key Details:
Maker: S. Mordan & Co.
Material: White metal (unhallmarked)
Marked: “S. MORDAN & Co. MAKER.”
Mechanism: Sliding body with twist-to-extend lead system
Length (unextended): 85.5mm
Length (extended): 107.5mm
Period: Late 19th to early 20th century
Condition:
In good antique condition
Sliding mechanism a little stiff but fully functional
Twist mechanism works correctly
Light tarnishing consistent with age
No dents or damage
Summary: A classic S. Mordan & Co. propelling pencil with fine knurled decoration and a working mechanism, representing one of Britain’s most iconic writing instrument makers. Ideal for collectors of antique writing tools or as an attractive display piece.
As usual, this item will be packaged carefully and dispatched with tracking. International shipping is available through the eBay Global Shipping Programme (GSP).
