Fountain pen calligraphy nibs

Your collection of vintage fountain pen nibs, including those from Blanzy Poure & Cie, J.L. Isaacs, and Soennecken, represents a fascinating piece of writing history. Here’s an overview of their history and potential value: History of the Nibs Blanzy Poure & Cie (France): Blanzy Poure was a prominent French manufacturer of writing implements in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The numbered nibs (e.g., 1, 1½, etc.) reflect various sizes and styles tailored for different writing or artistic purposes. These nibs were widely appreciated for their durability and fine craftsmanship. J.L. Isaacs (USA): The Isaacs aluminum nib is less common. Aluminum was a novel material for pen nibs in its time, making this an interesting historical artifact. This nib may date back to the late 19th or early 20th century. Soennecken (Germany): Soennecken was one of the most renowned German pen manufacturers, especially famous for their fountain pens, calligraphy nibs, and office supplies. The No. 68 nib would have been part of a set used for professional calligraphy or high-quality writing. The original box adds extra value. Condition and Completeness Blanzy Poure nibs: These appear in reasonable condition, though some show signs of rust and wear. Completeness (a range of sizes from the same manufacturer) adds collectible value. J.L. Isaacs aluminum nib: This is a rare piece and may interest specialized collectors due to the use of aluminum. Soennecken nib and box: The presence of the original box is a significant advantage, as packaging can double the value in collector markets. Value Estimates Blanzy Poure & Cie nibs: Individual nibs in good condition: $5–$15 each. Complete sets in fair to good condition: $40–$80. J.L. Isaacs aluminum nib: Rare material and branding: $20–$50. Soennecken nib with box: With the original box and depending on condition: $50–$100 or more. Collectability Factors Completeness: The wide range of nib sizes from Blanzy Poure makes this an attractive set for calligraphy enthusiasts and collectors. Rarity: The aluminum Isaacs nib is an unusual piece. Condition: Rust or wear reduces value. Cleaning the nibs carefully with rust-removal solutions or museum-grade tools can improve their appearance. Provenance: Any historical documentation or story about the set (e.g., who used it and when) can increase interest and value. Recommendations & Preservation: Avoid harsh cleaning methods that may damage the nibs or remove stamps. Store them in a dry, non-acidic environment to prevent further rusting. Selling Options: If you plan to sell, consider reaching out to vintage writing instrument dealers, auction sites like eBay, or specialized fountain pen forums and collector groups.

History of your Nibs

Blanzy Poure & Cie (France)

Blanzy Poure was a prominent French manufacturer of writing implements in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The numbered nibs (e.g., 1, 1½, etc.) reflect various sizes and styles tailored for different writing or artistic purposes. These nibs were widely appreciated for their durability and fine craftsmanship.

J.L. Isaacs (USA)

The Isaacs aluminum nib is less common. Aluminum was a novel material for pen nibs in its time, making this an interesting historical artifact. This nib may date back to the late 19th or early 20th century.

Soennecken (Germany)

Soennecken was one of the most renowned German pen manufacturers, especially famous for their fountain pens, calligraphy nibs, and office supplies. The No. 68 nib would have been part of a set used for professional calligraphy or high-quality writing. The original box adds extra value.

Condition and Completeness

• Blanzy Poure nibs: These appear in reasonable condition, though some show signs of rust and wear. Completeness (a range of sizes from the same manufacturer) adds collectible value.
• J.L. Isaacs aluminum nib: This is a rare piece and may interest specialized collectors due to the use of aluminum.
• Soennecken nib and box: The presence of the original box is a significant advantage, as packaging can double the value in collector markets.

Value Estimates

• Blanzy Poure & Cie nibs:
  • Individual nibs in good condition: $5–$15 each.
  • Complete sets in fair to good condition: $40–$80.
• J.L. Isaacs aluminum nib: Rare material and branding: $20–$50.
• Soennecken nib with box: With the original box and depending on condition: $50–$100 or more.

Collectability Factors

• Completeness: The wide range of nib sizes from Blanzy Poure makes this an attractive set for calligraphy enthusiasts and collectors.
• Rarity: The aluminum Isaacs nib is an unusual piece.
• Condition: Rust or wear reduces value. Cleaning the nibs carefully with rust-removal solutions or museum-grade tools can improve their appearance.
• Provenance: Any historical documentation or story about the set (e.g., who used it and when) can increase interest and value.

Recommendations

Preservation: Avoid harsh cleaning methods that may damage the nibs or remove stamps. Store them in a dry, non-acidic environment to prevent further rusting.

Selling Options: If you plan to sell, consider reaching out to vintage writing instrument dealers, auction sites like eBay, or specialized fountain pen forums and collector groups.

I also collect antique fountains pens and have done so for many years. If you'd like any advice on cleaning or selling these nibs just let me know.