Hansons Auctioneers is delighted to present a remarkable collection of vintage and antique writing instruments and accessories by Sampson Mordan & Co., to be offered in the upcoming Derby June Fine Art, Silver, Jewellery & Watches Auction on 12th June 2025.
Among the highlights are an array of finely crafted propelling pencils, fountain pens, and a unique silver-cased pipe cleaner set, showcasing the rich legacy of one of Britain’s most innovative 19th- and early 20th-century manufacturers.
Founded in the early 1820s, Sampson Mordan—alongside co-inventor John Isaac Hawkins—filed the first British patent for a metal pencil with an internal mechanism that propelled the graphite forward. Their invention significantly improved upon earlier designs that simply clutched the lead in a fixed position. After buying out Hawkins, Mordan partnered with Gabriel Riddle, an established stationer, and operated under the name “SMGR” until 1837. The firm then evolved into S. Mordan & Co., expanding its product line to include a wide variety of silver and gold writing implements and novelty items.
Daniel Armstrong, Silver Specialist at Hansons, said:
“Sampson Mordan’s pieces are not only mechanically innovative, but also charming reflections of their time — from pistol-shaped pencils to beautifully engraved barrels. This collection offers collectors and enthusiasts a rare chance to acquire fine examples from a maker who helped revolutionise the writing instrument.”
Featured Lots Include:
- Lot 22 – A novelty unmarked silver propelling pencil shaped like a flintlock pistol, featuring a scrolled foliate handle and marked ‘S. Mordan’ to the barrel. Estimate: £50–£80
- Lot 24 – A rare George IV or William IV silver double-ended propelling pencil and fountain pen, bearing the ‘Mordan & Co Patent’ engraving and the hallmarks of Mordan & Riddle. Estimate: £100–£150
- Lot 26 – An early Elizabeth II silver “Yard-O-Led” pencil (1955), paired with two additional Sampson Mordan examples: one with a scrolled and agate seal top, and another with classic engine-turned design. Estimate: £60–£80
- Lot 28 – A collection of four white metal propelling pencils, including examples with ribbed cylindrical forms and engine-turned decoration. Estimate: £80–£120
- Lot 29 – A trio of Edwardian and George V silver propelling pencils in bullet-style cylindrical forms, hallmarked 1904, 1907, and 1912. Estimate: £80–£120
- Lot 36 – A gold-plated propelling pencil with bloodstone seal top, engraved “J.H. Plumbe, Royal Marines, Plymouth,” accompanied by an ornate 19th-century gold-plated double-ended pencil/fountain pen. Estimate: £50–£80
- Lot 37 – A novelty silver pipe cleaner set in a bullet-shaped case, hallmarked by Sampson Mordan & Co, London, c.1930s, and also marked “Asprey”. Estimate: £50–£70
These exceptional pieces reflect the artistry and mechanical ingenuity that defined Mordan’s craftsmanship across multiple generations.
Expert Valuations Available
Hansons Auctioneers offers specialist expertise across all areas of collecting, from fine art and silver to jewellery, militaria, toys, coins, and stamps. If you have items you would like professionally assessed, Hansons’ in-house experts are available at its Derbyshire saleroom, during nationwide valuation events, or via free home visit services.
For more details, visit www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk, email [email protected], or call 01283 733988.
Auction Details
Auction: Derby June Fine Art, Silver, Jewellery & Watches Auction
Auction date: 12th June 2025 | 9.30am
Location: Hansons Derbyshire Saleroom
Auction contact: [email protected]
Catalogue/bidding: www.hansonslive.co.uk | www.the-saleroom.com
