I’ve written about Stephens before, in a general way. They’re best known for their ink, for their good-but-plain Leverfill school pen and for this admirable stud filler.

They have quite a strong following and the most colourful ones get snapped up pretty quickly for a good price. The most sought-after patterns include burgundy and black, blue and gold, jade and blue, green or rose marbled, like this present example.

This is a 76, in the middle of the price range. The model numbers reflect the cost, for example the 56 cost five shillings and sixpence, the 76 seven shillings and sixpence, and the 106, which had gold trim instead of nickel, cost ten shillings and sixpence. Though I haven’t seen one, I believe there was also a 210 with three gold bands and a larger nib.

The nibs in Stephens pens may bear the company name or just be warranted 14ct gold. Both appear to be original. In general, they have some flexibility and are often broad.