The Burnham 51, introduced in the early 1950s, represents an attempt to maintain quality in the face of extreme pressure on the fountain pen industry from the ballpoint. Ultimately it was a losing battle and Burnham went into liquidation in the early 1960s.
Although Burnham often did not stamp the pens that were sold in sets, as in this case, the size, shape and 14Ct. gold nib identify this set as a '51'.
The use of casein for the pen body and cap allowed a range of marbled and hatched patterns, this pen is a particularly attractive, and uncommon, burgundy/pink marble.
The set is in superb condition, it has a 'showroom' finish with bright, unfaded colours, unusually for a Burnham, the gold filling on the clips, cap bands, and lever has held up very well.
It was in need of no restoration, as such, although the pen was disassembled, checked, and fitted with a new ink sac as the original had hardened with age.
The 51 is a Gold nibbed pen, substantially more expensive than the plated nib Burnhams available at the time. The nib is clearly stamped 'Burnham 14Ct. Gold', it writes with a firm, medium line although it has a 'soft' feel and a touch of line variation is available.
The pencil operates by twisting the cone to extend and retract the lead. New leads, which are installed through the cone, are stored in the barrel and can be accessed by removing the cap stud.
The set is presented in a new, high quality box that will serve well for transportation, protection, and display.
At 11.8 cm capped and 14 cm. posted, the Burnham 51 has a solid feel and is comfortable in use. Good quality Burnhams are becoming quite collectable.