12 Most Expensive Pencils in the World
Nikole Stewart
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Pencils usually don’t make people think too much about them, as they’re helpful writing utensils to help scribble down a note or information and then go on about your day. Most of us peruse Walmart to find the cheapest, largest pack we can because for some reason, no matter how many pencils you buy, they always disappear.
But what about those that want the most expensive pencils? Whether you’re interested in writing with them, or just to collect, there’s a beauty to having some of the most expensive ones in your office or home. If you’re one of those people that want a bit more extravagance in your life, or just want to learn, read more to find out about these most expensive pencils.
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What Is the Most Expensive Pencil in the World?
The most expensive pencil that was sold outright, and not auctioned, is Graf von Faber-Castell’s Perfect Pencil Limited Edition that was $12,800, as there were only 99 produced at the time. This entry was even added in the Guiness World Records.
What Are the Most Expensive Colored Pencils in the World?
While a few years ago Louis Vuitton might have been here at this entry for around $900, they have since not been on the website, so instead, we have Gucci’s coloring pencil set for $735 and is currently available.
What Is the Difference Between Cheap and Expensive Colored Pencils?
There is a huge difference between cheaper and more expensive colored pencils, especially to those who are artists. However, if you have children or teens who just enjoy coloring every now and then, it won’t really make a difference.
But usually, the cheaper packages such as Crayola pencils are waxier, and don’t blend out as well as some of the more expensive pencils. Not only that, but more expensive pencils tend to be more vibrant on the page, their color not as subtle.
5 Most Expensive Mechanical Pencils
But let’s dive into what are the most expensive pencils in the mechanical world. There are several that are just created in beautiful and high-quality material, while others that have been passed down through history and have a story to tell.
5. Butler & Co Gold Propelling Pencil Presented by Queen Victoria, $2,500
Anything historical is obviously going to have a higher price than normal, especially if it’s a pencil given by Queen Victoria during the first half of the 19th century. This dual action propelling pencil and scraper has a diamond pattern, imperial crown emblem engraved on bloodstone cabochon, elaborately foliated rose-motif levers and tests as 14K solid gold.
Not only is the material incredibly high-quality and unique, but the history and story behind this pencil is amazing, making it a well-worthy purchase sitting at around $2,500 through Bonhams in 2014.
4. Montblanc 14K Gold Pencil, $4,375
Of course, when talking about anything expensive, there’s always one that is gold, pure gold. This goes for the Montblanc solid gold pencil from 1926 that was auctioned off at Bonhams in 2015 for over $4,000.
This rare pencil was discovered in an old cigar box and is said to be one of up to ten that have survived over the years. These pencils were given as payment during economic crisis between 1929 to 1931 when Montblanc was struggling to save money.
3. Apollo 15 Mechanical Pencil, $5,000
Sometimes being a collector is all about finding a unique item and displaying it for the world to see, and that’s just what this mechanical pencil is. There are a lot of pencils that were owned by historical figures, or beautiful and expensive creations from top brands, but this one is truly unique, as it’s been to the moon!
This mechanical pencil was flown to the surface of the moon and was auctioned at Bonhams in 2017 and sold for $5,000. The pencil belonged to Jim Irwin and is a chrome metal with black plastic ring at center of the barrel with a Velcro patch flued to the top. This is truly a great item for any collector to grab.
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2. FABERGÉ Three-Color Gold-Mounted Enamel Pencil, $10, 645
Estimated to be between $8,000 and $11,000, this mechanical pencil has a translucent peachy surface. This pencil is said to be purchased from the London branch of Fabergé by Grand Duke Michael Mikhailovich in 1914 for only 6 pounds, which would have been $7.
The auction was held at Sotheby’s and the pencil was sold for over $10,000, making it one of the most expensive mechanical pencils in the world.
1. Cartier Art Deco Gold Diamond Mechanic Pencil, $22,354.80
Cartier is one of the top brands when it comes to luxury and extravagance. From bracelets, watches, rings and apparently pencils, Cartier is a well-known brand when it comes to expensive accessories.
And one such item that is on 1st Dibs is the Cartier Art Deco Diamon Gold Mechanical Pencil for over $22,000. Designed as a necklace, the pendent is where you can unscrew and reveal the pencil.
Why Are Some Mechanical Pencils Expensive?
The main reason that mechanical pencils are expensive, and cost more than wooden, is because it requires raw materials such as plastic, lead and a spring. Because mechanical pencils are more durable and will last a lot longer thanks to the use of lead refills, these pencils are a lot more expensive than wooden pencils.
How Much Do Mechanical Pencils Cost to Make?
The average cost to make mechanical pencils vary between $3 to $5, which would also help explain why some mechanical pencils have such a high price tag.
What Is the Difference Between a Cheap and an Expensive Mechanical Pencil?
While the average cost to make a mechanical pencil is around $3, luxury brands are another story. These pencils tend to be more durable as they’re using higher-quality materials that can withstand more years doing various tasks and going to different places.
If you’re opting for cheaper pencils, you’re likely to be spending money on more mechanical pencils in the future. So, while there’s not too much of a different between the two, if you’re wanting a durable pencil that can last for years, you might want to opt for a pricier pencil that is deemed more luxurious.
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5 Most Expensive Wood Pencils
Now let’s check out some of the most expensive pencils that are just wooden. These are not as durable, as mentioned, so there may not be a huge amount of extremely expensive ones. However, they’re all expensive in a relative sense compared to the ones we’re used to.
5. Staedtler Noris HB, $12.44
Wooden pencils aren’t as pricey as mechanical pencils, only because they last longer due to lead refills, and can withstand history a bit better, but that doesn’t mean that wood pencils aren’t better. Wood pencils are often favorited for many people, which means that single pencils cost more than what you usually see in the store.
For instance, Staedtler Noris HB pencils cost about $12.44 for 12 pieces. They’re higher quality than most pencils and have a wonderful ergonomic triangular shape to make it easy and comfortable to hold.
4. Mitsubishi Hi Uni HB, $23.00
This Japanese company has been in business since 1915, making them one of the oldest manufacturers and retailers or writing instruments in Japan. And their most popular product is the Hi Uni HB 1825, or the Kabura-Kun, which was initially introduced to commemorate their 100th anniversary.
It’s made with high-quality lead and can either be bought one pencil at a time for $3 or a pack of 12 for $23. There are several different lead grades so you can pick and choose which lead is best for your needs.
3. Blackwing Eras, $30.00
Blackwing is another popular name when it comes to writing instruments, and it shows with the high quality of pencils that they provide. A set of 12 pencils is $30, which is a substantial climb from the basic #2’s that you see at Walmart or Amazon.
Blackwing is known for creating high-quality pencils with extravagant material and designs. If you want a larger amount, you can grab a pack of 200 for $350.
2. Abraham Lincoln’s Wooden Pencil, $11,875
Of course, anything from one of the most well-known historical figures and presidents are going to come with a heavy price, even if it’s just a pencil.
This wooden pencil, however, is said to be the one used by Lincoln when writing his dispatch from Richmond to Gen Grant, the week before he was assassinated. The action for this extravagant pencil took place at Bonhams April 2014 and was sold for over $11,000.
1. The Perfect Pencil Limited Edition, $12,800
With a name like that, it’s hard to compete. The Perfect Pencil is created by Graf von Faber-Castell, one of the leading names in the world of luxury writing. The pencil is made with a number of high-quality materials.
From 240-year-old olive tree wood to metal pieces made of 18-carat white gold, and with a cap that has three diamonds, this pencil is the true definition of perfect. And with this, only 99 pencils were produced in total, making them around $12,800.
The non-limited edition Perfect Pencil can now be found for around $475 if you’re wanting to try them out. With a build in sharpener and eraser, this is everything you’ll need and more. It’s so extravagant that you’ll most likely have it on display before using it.
Why Are Some Pencils so Expensive?
This is mostly due to the materials that they’re using to craft the pencils. For example, some premium material is the 240-year-old olive wood that is found with the Perfect Pencil. That material is unique and expensive, so of course that pencil will be a lot more expensive than others.
Another reason is the historical background that the pencil has been through, like owned by Lincoln himself. And of course, both examples have such high demand, which only increases the price even more.
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What’s the Difference Between Expensive and Cheap Pencils?
When talking about just wooden pencils, the main difference is how the lead lays down on the page. Cheaper quality has more wax, making a dull draw or line.
High-quality pencils are better because the material is crafted to withstand more use, and the lead is easier to lay down as it was softer.
What Is the Best Quality Pencil in the World?
This primarily depends on your preferences, however, the most recommended brands that have the best pencil quality include Blackwing Palomino that costs $30 for a 12 pack, Faber-Castell Blacklead Pencil for $13, and Mitsubishi Pencil 9800 for $7.
What Is the Most Popular Pencil in the World?
There are several extremely popular brands, but when it comes to specific pencils, the most purchased currently on Amazon is BIC Mechanical Pencils 40 pack that only costs $6, and basic #2 pencils pack of 30 for $7 as well. Both are familiar, come in bulk, and are very affordable.
Why Is the #2 Pencil the Most Popular?
The #2 pencil is the most popular because it’s the second darkest of the four major grades of pencil marketed under the system and is generally seen as the middle of the road choice. Using a system of numbers and letters, each pencil receives its own grading, and the #2 is the most neutral between them all, making it the most popular.
What Pencil Do Most Artist Use?
While brands, once again, are all on preference, the most popular type of pencil that artists use are graphite pencils when working on art or writing. And more often, you’ll see that artists prefer wooden pencils than mechanical pencils.
What Is the Most Expensive Pencil Case in the World?
Going back to Louis Vuitton, we have the most expensive that I could find. While the colored pencils are no longer on the website, this $670 pencil pouch is. There are a variety of cases for those to choose from, ranging from as low as $479 all the way to $670 in various different colors and designs.
What Is the Most Expensive Pencil Drawing in the World?
Artwork already sells for a high price, but one of the most expensive pencil drawings that was auctioned off was in 2009 for $48 million and it was Raphael’s “Head of a Muse” at Christie’s.
What Is the Most Expensive Pencil Sharpener in the World?
El Casio has a Gold Pencil Sharpener for a high price tag of $714, which is a hand crank pencil sharpener finished in 23K gold and black lacquer.
What Is the Most Expensive Wood Used to Make Pencils?
Vatta wood is by far one of the costliest woods to make pencils which is used in India and Sri Lanka for making high-quality pencils. The source is the tree Macaranga peltata, a hardwood making pencils durable, but is hard to find.
Conclusions
Pencils, for some, are just a way to write notes in class or at home, but for others, it’s a whole other world full of luxury and design. Whether you’re just learning about certain products and their history, or looking for the next piece in your office, these most expensive pencils are definitely something to look into.
There are several reasons why pencils have such a high price tag, but whether you’re interested in spending the money or not is up to you.
