Mabie Todd added the first lever filling pen to the Swan range in 1920, this rolled gold, all metal pen was introduced shortly afterwards.

The rolled gold of the barrel and cap is not an overlay on to hard rubber, as was common practice.  The pen is constructed in metal, giving more room for the internal filler mechanism and adding strength.

Made in New York, the pen is a 'ring-top', featuring a 'chatelaine ring' for attachment to a belt or sash, it also became popular for men to fasten the pen to a watch chain.  A completely practical writer, it was also meant to be shown off as a sign of prosperity.

At 10cm. capped and a comfortable 13cm. with the cap posted, the pen has a very high quality, solid feel, enhanced by the metal to metal contact of the cap threads, which tightens with two full turns.

The pen is in superb condition with no brassing or dents to the metal work.  The imprint around the end of the barrel reads:

'Swan Pen' Mabie Todd & Co. New York.

Made in U.S.A.

The ' locking lever' filling system, a Mabie Todd patent allows the filling lever to be 'clicked' into place, a new ink sac has been fitted.  The Gold nib is clearly imprinted:

Mabie Todd & Co.

N.Y.

2

It delivers a medium line and has a pleasing amount of flex, giving line variation to add character to the writing.

The velvet presentation box is, doubtless, a much later addition but it came with the pen, is in excellent condition, and suits it very well.

At around a hundred years old, this Swan is in extraordinary condition.  It is a jewel of a pen from the 'golden age' of fountain pens and is extremely collectable.