Writing is a true art form, but there are now more ways than ever to craft words on a page. Typewriters, computers, tablets, and smartphones all have word processing capabilities and some may even include special software. For some, however, there is simply no substitute for an excellent pen. Many claim that the process of putting pen to paper is an especially personal, sincere and meaningful one. But to what extent will people go to for this experience? What are the most expensive pens ever sold?
Pens can be an impressive work of design, performance, and craftsmanship. They are uniquely personal too and can be either timeless and classic, or contemporary and fresh. They are both practical and stylish, so it is easy to see why they can become coveted – and pricey – items.
The pens below are another level of luxury, however. The prices they command are some of the highest for pens in the world. Take a look at the selection below.
10 Most Expensive Pens Ever Sold in Ascending Order
10) Perrier-Jouët Anniversary Edition pen by Omas — £99,341
Directly inspired by the sophisticated gold and green of Perrier-Jouët’s famous champagne bottle, the anniversary edition pen is certainly a cause for celebration! Fewer than 2,000 were ever created, however, and the valuation price continues to climb.
9) Limited Edition Boheme Papillion Pen by Montblanc — £169,927
A truly ostentatious and eye-catching design boasting sparkling diamonds and sapphires, the Boheme Papillion is also highly customisable. For discerning buyers, it is available in all shades of gold, including yellow, white, and the more contemporary rose. Discover our top ten Montblanc pens here.
8) Prince Rainier III Limited Edition 81 Pen — £188,800
Honouring Monaco’s Prince Rainier II, this pen is crafted with highly coveted white gold, and with the intricate inner workings and design of the pen still visible, this is a highly modern and unique premium pen.
7) La Modernista Diamond Pen — £195,437
The work of world-renowned jeweller Robert Perron, the sleek and sophisticated Modernista was originally crafted as a homage to the late celebrated architect Antonio Gaudi.
6) Caran d’Ache Gothica Pen — £299,756
The unique design of the Gothica boasts six solid sterling silver faces coated with rhodium, as well as an array of stunning rubies, diamonds, and emeralds. Inspired by Gothic design and the fleur-de-lis, it made its first appearance in China. You can explore our Caran d’Ache pens here.
5) Mystery Masterpiece by Montblanc and Van Cleef and Arpels — £538,375
This staggering ostentatious design is available encrusted in precious stones of the purchaser’s choice, including flawless emeralds, sapphires, or rubies.
4) Heaven Gold Pen by Anita Tan — £734,188
Inspired by the celestial movement of the planets in the solar system, the Heaven Gold design is vibrant, breathtaking, and highly original.
3) Diamante by Aurora — £944,000
This aurora diamante fountain pen is produced only once a year, and is topped with a diamond. Its pure platinum barrel is durable, timeless, and encrusted with tiny, spectacular diamonds.
2) Montblanc Boheme Royal Pen — £1.1 million
A spectacular design featuring platinum, white gold, and a staggering 1,000-plus encrusted diamonds, the Boheme range continues to be a favourite among the most exacting pen buyers.
1) Fulgor Nocturnus by Tibaldi — £5.9 million
Largely recognised as the most expensive pen in the world, this genuine one-of-a-kind piece is crafted with rare black diamonds. It sold at a Shanghai charity auction and is the prized work of celebrated pen maker Tibaldi.
If you feel inspired by these most expensive pens find your own prestigious pen, read our post on our most expensive fountain pens!
