Pens have long served as more than mere writing instruments; they embody a rich history and elegant craftsmanship. From the ancient reeds of Egyptian scribes to the refined fountain pens of the 19th century, these tools have evolved significantly. In the early 20th century, luxury pens became symbols of status and artistry, adorned with precious metals and stones.
10 of the Most Expensive Pens Ever Made
Today, they represent exquisite design and personal expression. This list explores some of the most expensive pens in the world and the staggering prices collectors are willing to pay to secure these works of art.
1. Fulgor Nocturnus by Tibaldi – $8 million
The Fulgor Nocturnus by Tibaldi is an exquisitely unique writing instrument that fetched an astonishing $8 million at a charity auction in Shanghai in 2020. The name "Fulgor Nocturnus," translating to "dazzling brilliance occurring at night," reflects its exceptional design and craftsmanship. The pen’s structure adheres to the divine proportion of Phi, with the cap and barrel's dimensions embodying the 1.618 ratio, symbolising perfect harmony and beauty. This rare piece is encrusted with 945 black diamonds and 123 rubies, alongside an 18-carat gold nib, ensuring its durability and luxury. The pen's 16 clips and overall design elements are meticulously crafted, making it a singular work of art. Only one Fulgor Nocturnus exists, enhancing its allure as a collector’s gem. This pen’s remarkable design, rare materials, and limited availability secure its place as one of the most expensive pens in the world.
2. Montblanc Taj Mahal Limited Edition – $2 million
The Montblanc Taj Mahal Limited Edition pen, priced at $2 million, celebrates the Golden Era of the Mughal Empire, encapsulating the artistic zenith of that time. Inspired by Shah Jahan’s majestic Taj Mahal, this pen is one of only ten pieces worldwide, each showcasing intricate craftsmanship and luxurious materials. The pen’s body is adorned with diamonds, sapphires, and malachite set against champagne-tone gold, echoing the grandeur of the Mughal period. The cap top is reminiscent of the Taj Mahal’s dome, while the forepart features traditional Mughal decorations. Instead of a clip, a majestic peacock feather nods to the emperor’s gilded peacock throne. The pen includes a 6.10 ct. step-cut emerald, rubies, and diamonds set using traditional Kundan techniques, and a detachable rose-cut diamond revealing a miniature enamel painting. This pen is a tribute to eternal love and artistic mastery, cementing its status among the world's most luxurious writing instruments.
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3. Montblanc Johannes Kepler High Artistry Stella Nova Limited Edition 1 – $1.5 Million
The Montblanc Johannes Kepler High Artistry Stella Nova Limited Edition 1 is a tribute to the legendary astronomer and mathematician Johannes Kepler. This one-of-a-kind pen, priced at $1.5 million, features a design inspired by the night sky, with 5,294 sapphires and 570 diamonds. The cap’s sapphires emulate the Milky Way, and a 6.2-carat D-flawless diamond crowns the pen, surrounded by three white-gold rings representing Kepler’s three laws of planetary motion. The nib is engraved with the constellation Ophiuchus, paying homage to Kepler’s 1606 publication, De Stella Nova. This pen combines historical significance with impeccable craftsmanship, making it an extraordinary collector’s piece.
4. Montblanc Boheme Royal Pen – $1.5 million
The Montblanc Boheme Royal Pen is a lavish writing instrument crafted from 18-carat white gold and embellished with over 1,430 diamonds. Available in two versions, featuring either pure white diamonds or a combination of white and black diamonds, this pen is a symbol of opulence. Its retractable nib and cartridge refill system make it user-friendly, while the precious stones create wavy patterns across its surface. The Montblanc logo is made up of three white gold rings and 19 diamonds, and the clip is set with a paramount-cut diamond. This exquisite pen is famed for its stunning design and rarity, making it one of the most expensive pens in the world.
5. Diamante By Aurora – $1.47 million
The Diamante by Aurora impresses with its intricate detailing and use of high jewellery. Crafted in Turin, Italy, this pen features a solid platinum barrel and a gold nib finished with iridium for precision writing. It is adorned with 1,919 De Beers cabochon diamonds, weighing over 30 carats, a nod to Aurora’s founding year, 1919. The pen also includes a hidden ink reservoir for extended use. Each Diamante takes up to two years to create, resulting in extremely limited production – typically just one pen per year.
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6. Caran D’Ache 1010 Diamond Edition – $1.28 million
The Caran d'Ache 1010 Diamond Edition is a testament to the brand’s commitment to exquisite craftsmanship and luxury. Named after the 10:10 watch hand position, this pen is a homage to Swiss Haute Horlogerie. Made of 18-carat solid white gold, it is encrusted with over 850 diamonds in brilliant, emerald, and baguette cuts. The cap resembles watch gear teeth, with 26 lines of baguette-cut diamonds cascading down. The body features 150 emerald-cut diamonds, and the clock-shaped clip holds the Caran d'Ache monogram. This pen's combination of artistry and precious stones makes it an extraordinary and rare masterpiece.
7. Heaven Gold By Anita Tan – $995,000
The Heaven Gold pen by Anita Tan is a remarkable example of elegance and masterful craftsmanship. Limited to just eight pieces worldwide, this pen features 1,888 diamonds totalling 48 carats, including 161 brilliant-coloured diamonds that form a breathtaking crest. Designed in 2010, this pen reflects Tan’s Chinese heritage, incorporating the auspicious number 8, which signifies fortune. Inspired by the celestial movement of planets, the Heaven Gold is crafted from 18-karat gold and embodies radiance and originality. Its rarity and the intricate use of diamonds make it a highly sought-after piece among collectors.
8. Mystery Masterpiece By Montblanc, Van Cleef & Arpels – $730,000
The Mystery Masterpiece pen, co-created by Montblanc and Van Cleef & Arpels in 2006, commemorates the 100th anniversary of both brands. This luxurious pen is available in three versions, each featuring sapphires, rubies, or emeralds, and is adorned with 840 diamonds totalling 20 carats. The pen uses Van Cleef & Arpels’ unique Mystery Setting technique, which conceals the settings holding the gemstones, creating the illusion of floating stones. Limited to just nine pieces, each handcrafted pen showcases over 200 years of combined expertise and innovation, making it a rare and highly coveted writing instrument.
9. Caran D’Ache Gothica Pen – $406,000
The Caran d'Ache Gothica Pen, released in 2006, is a tribute to Gothic art and architecture. Limited to 1,140 pieces, this pen features a six-sided body made of rhodium-coated sterling silver, with Gothic window designs and fleurs-de-lis in bright colours. Crafted by Barcelona silversmiths and finished by Caran d'Ache's master craftsmen, the pen's intricate detailing and historical inspiration make it exceptionally unique. The Gothic motifs and the use of precious materials like rhodium and 18-carat gold, along with its exclusive limited edition, contribute to its high value and desirability.
10. Montegrappa Dragon Bruce Lee Set – $290,000
The Montegrappa Dragon Bruce Lee Set is a luxurious tribute to the legendary martial artist Bruce Lee. Priced at $290,000, the set includes a fountain pen, a ballpoint pen, and a crystal ink pot, all featuring intricate designs. Made from precious celluloid and 18-carat gold, the pens are adorned with black and white diamonds and emerald-eyed dragons spiralling up the barrels. This stunning set celebrates Chinese symbolism and Lee’s cultural impact, blending artistry with luxury. The intricate craftsmanship and the exclusive theme make this set a highly prized collectable.
Final Words
These pens go beyond their practical purpose, capturing aspirations, thoughts, and creativity with every stroke. As vessels of expression and repositories of ideas, they serve as silent witnesses to people’s journeys through life. As we continue to innovate and evolve in the digital age, the allure of a pen remains steadfast, reminding us of the enduring power of words and the beauty of handwritten expression.
