The Sheaffer Imperial AS9, made only in 1959 and 1960, was adveritsed as an 'Imperial', the first pen of that name, and bearing little resemblance to the familiar 'PFM shaped' Imperials that followed later in 1960.
A Touchdown filler, the pen has been restored, rested, and is in excellent condition throughout. It has a first class surface and the gold filled clip and cap band have held up very well.
The touchdown filling system takes up a good volume of ink with one operation of the plunger and the unusual unmarked 9Ct. Gold short cylindrical nib writes with a wonderfully smooth extra broad line, well suited to someone who likes to write 'with a flourish'. The upturned nib, which has a generous ball of tipping, was designed to maximise contact with the paper for a smooth writing experience.
The AS9 is a rare pen, and is highly collectable, but it would be a shame not to put such a great writer into regular service.