Inkipedia
Esterbrook #444 and #484 Dip-Less Fountain Inkwell and Pen
| Categories | Plastic - Bakelite - Gutta Percha |
| Material | Bakelite, Glass |
| Markings | See Narrative |
| Manufacturer | Esterbrook |
| Origin | United States |
| Date or Era | circa 1940's |
| Measuring | 4 ¼” diameter |
| Patent | Patent #2304832 |
This Esterbrook Dip-Less Fountain Well is sometimes referred to as the “Hockey Puck” because of its resemblance. The bottom is embossed with “Esterbrook No 444 Made in USA/ Dip-Less Fountain Well / Pat. 2304832 Others Pending”. The Esterbrook Dip-Less Lucite pen is marked “Esterbrook Made in USA” and has a steel #2556 Esterbrook nib.
The Esterbrook inkwell has a glass bottom and a black Bakelite top. Inside is a red gasket which cautions “Do Not Fill Above This Level”. It became available in a variety of colors. There is a double version which is numbered #484. Some versions were designed for public use, such as in banks and post offices. Pictured are an Esterbrook Dip-Less 444 used in the United States House of Representatives and two examples of Esterbrook’s No. 484 Dip-Less double inkwell.
Video: taking #444 apart: Esterbrook 444 Dip-Less Inkwell (youtube.com)
#444 sold for $25 in January 2024.
#484 – green double with pens sold for $95 in April 2024
Model No. 484 (black) with two Lucite pens sold for $131 in August 2024
Content disclaimer. The information posted is the owner’s best knowledge and may not have been vetted by the SOIC. We welcome comments, corrections, and additions, working to make our website information comprehensive and accurate.
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