The Parker 17, hooded nib version, was introduced in 1964. This pen can be dated to 1970 by the manufacturers 'chalk marks' on the barrel. Decimal currency came into force on the 14th. february 1971 and for a few months either side of the changeover many items were dual marked. Prior to 'decimal day' the 'old currency' appeared first, as on this pen, and after the day it was reversed with decimal currency appearing first.
The pen is genuine new old stock, the chalk marks are very delicate and would easily be removed as the pen was handled. The marks were intended only as a guide to the retailer and were meant to be rubbed off as the pen was sold. This pen was part of a batch of unsold pens from a long defunct stationer.
The Parker 17, part of the Duofold family, came in just four colours, green, blue, red, and black, with green being, by far, the least common. a new refill has been fitted so the pen is ready to write.