1948 Black Sheaffer Statesman - Vacuum-Fil - Fine+ Golden Spade nib

Behold the Golden Spade.

In 1942 Sheaffer introduced the Triumph line. That replaced the Balance line they had produced since 1929. Nearly all the Triumph pens were equipped with conical nibs. A few low priced pens like the Craftsman carried small open nibs.

In 1948 Sheaffer brought back a nib based on the flagship Balance Premier, or Oversize (OS). My good friend Paul dubbed it the Golden Spade. It is the same size nib as found on the vaunted Sheaffer Premier. In fact, I have found Premiers with Golden Spade replacement nibs. The only difference is the imprint - the Golden Spade is not stamped LIFETIME.

I love the way the Golden Spade looks on the Triumph era Statesman. It is disproportionately large compared to the barrel. I think that is marvelous. This one writes a lovely, smooth, fine line.

The pen is in very good condition apart from a touch of worn plating at the end of the clip. The ink view grip section is still the original pale green with excellent transparency.

The cap is made to post gently but securely making the pen long enough for any hand.

Length
Capped: 127 mm - 5 inches
Uncapped: 110 mm - 4.35 inches
Posted: 145 mm - 5.7 inches

Diameter
Cap: 12.6 mm - 0.5 inches
Barrel: 11.5 mm - 0.45 inches

Filling System
Vacuum filler

Nib
fine