Sheaffer Student Special #22 Flat Top – 14K Gold Nib – c. 1923–1927 Description Early Sheaffer Student Special fountain pen, manufactured in Fort Madison, Iowa, USA, circa 1923–1927. This is a vintage Sheaffer Flat Top Student Special in black chased material with gold-coloured trim and the original lever-filling system. The barrel carries the characteristic early Sheaffer patent inscription: “W.A. Sheaffer Pen Co. – Pat. Aug. 25.08 – Fort Madison, IA, U.S.A. – Dec.10.12 – Jan.27 – Oct.20 – Nov.24.14.” This style of patent inscription is associated with Sheaffer Flat Top pens from the 1920s and was discontinued around the late 1920s. The fountain pen is fitted with a Sheaffer #22 Student Special 14-carat gold nib. The #22 Student Special was Sheaffer’s smaller, more affordable Flat Top model of the period and was available both as a ring-top and as a clip version such as this example. The black body features an attractive chased surface pattern, with a gold-coloured clip and narrow cap band. The pen has been tested and is in working condition. Vintage signs of use are present, including light surface wear and age-related wear to the metal trim. The barrel imprint remains clearly legible. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description. A genuine early American Sheaffer fountain pen from the 1920s, with its original-style #22 Student Special gold nib and extensive early patent markings.