The Pelikan M481 is an interesting transitional piston-filling fountain pen produced from approximately 1983 to 1985, shortly after the reintroduction of the classic M400 and immediately before the arrival of the M200. It shares the familiar compact proportions and traditional Pelikan piston mechanism of the period, while incorporating several distinctive details of its own, including a single cap band, gold-plated trim and, on many examples, the unusual smooth cap top with the Pelikan emblem concealed beneath it. The model was normally fitted with a stainless-steel nib and was offered in a wide range of nib widths, including oblique options. Its short production period, distinctive transitional construction and close relationship to the early M200 make the M481 an especially interesting model within Pelikan’s 1980s production. The pen is in good, pre-owned condition and has been carefully cleaned. Imperfection: loss of gold plating on nib, otherwise excellent condition.