Cross Century

Cross Century, A. T. Cross
EyeTrick, CC BY 4.0

The slim pen with a conical top that became the standard gift to employees and graduates in the United States.

The Century appeared in 1946 and has been made in the same shape ever since. Cross pens have often been used when American presidents sign bills into law.

Materials: Metal, often gold-plated

Manufacture: Made in Rhode Island.

The conical top and slim body.

The black top on many versions.