For your consideration, we are honored to present for sale this 1996 Pelikan “1000 Years of Austria” Limited Edition Fountain Pen, number 724 of only 1,000 produced worldwide, offered here in Mint, Never Inked condition. This exceptional example remains exactly as it left Pelikan’s workshops nearly three decades ago and is complete with both inner and outer presentation boxes, the original Limited Edition Certificate, Pelikan literature, and service card—a truly complete and highly desirable set for the discerning collector.
Issued in 1996 to commemorate Austria’s 1,000-year jubilee, this landmark Pelikan limited edition reflects both historical significance and refined European design. The pen’s aesthetic was entrusted to Professor Gustav Peichl, a celebrated Austrian architect, whose influence is evident in the pen’s bold yet elegant presence. The official presentation of this model was held before an invited audience of just 100 guests at the Emperor’s Pavilion in Schönbrunn’s Zoological Garden in Vienna, underscoring the prestige of the release.
Distribution was intentionally limited: 700 examples were allocated to Austria, 150 to Germany, and only 150 to the rest of the world, making this model particularly elusive outside Europe. This pen is constructed on Pelikan’s legendary M800 platform, widely admired for its balance, durability, and writing performance.
Visually, the pen is striking - this Limited Edition used the Pelikan M800 as its basis. The cap is crafted from a vivid red resin, accented by sterling silver trim, with the edition number 724/1000 engraved into the cap ring. A translucent gray-blue ink-view window provides a subtle contrast while allowing ink level visibility—both a functional and aesthetic hallmark of Pelikan’s piston fillers. The cap crown bears Pelikan’s classic two-chick logo, correct for the era of production.
Condition is exemplary. The pen shows no cracks, chips, nicks, scratches, or repairs, and retains its original factory finish throughout. The cap threads smoothly and securely to the barrel, with no looseness or wear. There are no monograms or personal engravings. The pen measures 5 1/2 inches capped and 6 1/2 inches posted, offering the familiar and comfortable proportions expected of the M800 series.
The fountain pen is fitted with Pelikan’s smooth-operating piston filling system, which has been carefully tested with water and functions exactly as intended, providing generous ink capacity and long-term reliability.
At the heart of the pen is a pristine 18C/750 two-tone gold Broad nib, never inked or dip-tested to preserve its untouched, factory-new status. The nib measures approximately 1.01mm at the tip when measured with digital calipers and remains exactly as the next owner would want it—ready to be enjoyed or preserved.
Completing the offering is the full original presentation ensemble, including the deluxe Pelikan box set, Limited Edition Certificate, documentation, and service card, all in excellent condition.
The Pelikan “1000 Years of Austria” Limited Edition is more than a fountain pen—it is a celebration of history, national identity, and Pelikan’s mastery of design and engineering. Highly sought after by Pelikan collectors worldwide, this example represents an increasingly difficult-to-find opportunity to acquire a museum-quality, complete, and untouched piece of Pelikan history. Whether destined for a collection or future use, it stands as a truly distinguished addition to any serious writing instrument collection.
