M481 « The Pelikan's Perch

The M481 is an export version of the M200. It is the same size as the M200 but has several interesting differences in trim detail. The pen was produced from around 1983 – 1985. It should have styling similar to the Pre-’97 M200 which would include a derby cap top, gold colored trim, absence of a trim ring on the barrel, and two cap bands. Instead, the M481 has a derby cap top that has no logo design (it is smooth), gold colored trim, absence of a trim ring on the barrel, and a single cap band. If you unscrew the derby cap top, you will often (but not always) find the Pelikan logo branded beneath. These came in black, green-black, burgundy, and clear demonstrator color variations. The clear demonstrator was not labeled as an M481 but rather listed as “Pelikan Demonstrator.” Though it does not officially carry the name, it has the same trim as the other pens in the line. Interestingly, several examples have employed the experimental and short-lived friction fit feed. Also of note, despite being from the early to mid-1980s, some pens will have “Pelikan Germany” imprinted on the cap band while others will have “Pelikan W.-Germany.” The nibs are gold-plated stainless steel and were originally available in EF, F, M, B, BB, OM, OB, and OBB. Pelikan Milano was known to provide a special edition to companies which was not available for sale to the general public (sometimes labeled as an M150). That M481 is distinguished by a 12C two toned gold nib.

Pelikan brochure featuring the M481 (Japan)

Total Length	Barrel Length	Cap Length	Posted Length	Diameter	Weight
5.00 in	3.23 in	2.28 in	5.87 in	0.46 in	0.49 oz

Barrel Color	Cap Color
Black (1983)	Black
Green-Black (1983)	Black
Burgundy (1983)	Burgundy
Clear Demonstrator (1983)	Clear Demonstrator

*A special edition is known to exist for the Italian Market, produced by Pelikan Milano. Labeled an M150, it is a black M481 with a 12C monotone gold nib. This was given as a corporate gift and not available for sale to the general public. One known example was made for the Lagostina cookware company. The cap of that pen bears the company logo depicted to the right.