The Mabie Todd Jackdaw pen was made, in England, in the 1930s. This is a mint example, it is unused and complete with the original box and instructions. The price sticker is still attached to the cap.
As the pen is in new condition no restoration was needed but, as the original ink sac had hardened with age, it was replaced.
The Jackdaw did not sell in anywhere near the numbers of the Blackbird and Swan pens and only a small number of Jacdaws survive. It is a rare pen.
As the Jacdaw has chrome plated trim, it was less expensive than the other 'birds' from Mabie Todd but it has a 14 Ct.Gold nib and is of the same high quality build. The most noticeable distinguishing feature is the 'stepped' clip.
Sometimes, even new old stock pens do not write well, so the pen has been inked for testing purposes then thoroughly flushed. The 14 Ct Gold nib, which is clearly marked 'Jackdaw', writes with a fine line. It is not a flexible nib but a little line variation is available.
Mabie todd were very protective of their brands, the word 'Jackdaw' is clearly stamped on the nib, feed, section, barrel, and cap. The model number 'J6B/60' is stamped at the end of the barrel. In fact it is stamped twice with a slight overlap, an 'overstamping' error in production. All the imprints are crisp and clear.
The box lid has been repaired at one end but it is in sound clean condition, as is the instruction leaflet.
The Mabie Todd Jackdaw is very hard to come by, one in such excellent, collectable condition quite a rarity.