Vintage box of Rifleman Pen No. 509 quills from the Birmingham firm Hinks, Wells & Co. Its illustrated label depicts a British soldier in khaki uniform, rifle in hand, accompanied by flags and a cartridge with large red lettering. The design combines pale blue, navy blue, red and yellow in a particularly decorative advertising composition. Still full and sealed with its printed paper band, this box bears the inscription “100 Pens – No. 509 – White” on the side.
✦ Period: early 20th century ✦ Origin: England, Hinks, Wells & Co., Birmingham and London. ✦ Dimensions: approx. 7 × 5 × 2.5 cm. ✦ Material: polychrome printed cardboard and paper ✦ Contents: full box, stated capacity of 100 Rifleman Pen No. 509 quills, “White” finish. ✦ Condition: box still sealed, illustration and colours well preserved. Slight soiling of the paper, rubbing to the edges and corners. Contents and condition of the quills unverified due to the sealing.
A vintage English quill box with military illustration, for a collection of advertising stationery and writing objects.
