(NAPSA)—Whenheadsof state sign peace treaties and international agreements, they usually distribute copies of the signature pen to attending notables as a memento marking the special occasion. A historical world event such as a coronation or major anniversary elicits a more widespread distribution of commemorative memorabilia to enthusiasts who value a sense of participation in the event. In this spirit, a leading manufacturer of some of the world’s most beloved and well-made writing instruments, marks the 50 anniversary of the Queen of England’s accession to the throne with a collectible pen. The Parker Duofold Accession Limited Edition is available exclusively as a fountain pen with a medium nib and features a dedicated engraving of the Royal Cipher: “EIIR.” The 18-carat solid gold nib provides an excellent balance of strength and flexibility. The Duofold became an instant classic when it was introduced in the roaring twenties. Besides the significant technological and design improvements, the pen boasted a range of eye-catching colors. This new pen led the whole industry throughout the 1920s, a decade now regarded as the golden age of the fountain pen. Legend has it that at the time when nearly all pens were black, the brightly colored Duofold shone out in a meeting indicating its user was a successful businessman—andso thefirst status symbol pen was born. The charm of the pen lay in its unique combination of traditional style, craftsmanship and quality as evidenced in its latest incarnation. The Duofold Accession Limited Edition with a 23-carat gold plated cap and barrel and a solid gold nib, is offered as a collectible to admirers of the British Royal Family and othercollectors. Both the cap and barrel are engraved with an extract from the Proclamation of Accession. The cap is mounted with a genuine A limited edition fountain pen honors British Queen Elizabeth I’s Golden Jubilee. 1.55 carat amethyst that contrasts with the gold and adds emphasis to the precious nature of the pen. The barrel button contains the official Accession logo. The pen, along with a commemorative booklet detailing the story of Queen Elizabeth’s Accession to the throne and a certificate of authenticity, will be packaged in a lush, rich purple box. The box is made of a material similar in look and feel to bakelite, a material popular during thethirties, forties and fifties—the period in which the Queen grew up. Bakelite affected all aspects of life from everyday household appliances and furnishings, photography, communications and cars to the fashion world. In 1962 the Parker Pen Company was awarded the Royal Warrant by the Queen as the sole supplier of pens andinksto the Royal Household, an honor which con- tinues to this day. The issuance of a Royal Warrant is the highest possible official endorsement by the British Crown and recognizes the unrivaled expertise, excellence and quality that is synonymous with a Parker writing instrument. Production of the Duofold Accession will run to just 2,500 pieces worldwide and will be available at select fine jewelers and writing emporiums in June 2002. Each pen is individually numbered. Suggested retail is $850.00. For more information on availability call 800-BEST-PEN.
