A silver Montblanc Meisterstuck No. 146 fountain pen engraved with ‘SM Lee Kuan Yew’ is back on the auction block in Singapore. Previously part of a 2003 charity sale, this iconic pen has attracted significant bidding attention as part of a broader fine art and collectibles auction.
- Pen engraved with ‘SM Lee Kuan Yew’ dates to his Senior Minister years
- Previously auctioned in 2003 by the Lee Kuan Yew Family Collection
- Current high bid exceeds S$41,000 in a Hotlotz timed auction
What happened
A silver Montblanc Meisterstuck No. 146 fountain pen once owned by Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, has returned to auction. The pen is engraved with ‘SM Lee Kuan Yew,’ referencing his period as Senior Minister. It was previously sold in a charity auction in 2003 organized by the Lee Kuan Yew Family Collection.
Today the pen is featured in Hotlotz’s Interiors & Collectibles – August: Fine Art Focus timed online auction. It has attracted no fewer than 19 bids, with the highest offer standing at S$41,000 (about US$32,000). The auction also includes important Singaporean artworks and ceramics, making it a notable cultural event.
Why it feels good
The Montblanc Meisterstuck No. 146 is renowned for its classic design, with piston filling, gold-plated trim, and Montblanc’s signature white snowcap emblem on the cap. Typically valued between $500 and $2,500 depending on condition and edition, this pen carries immense emotional and historical value due to its association with Lee Kuan Yew.
The return of this pen to the market is a poignant reminder of Lee’s enduring legacy in Singapore. It connects bidders and collectors with a tangible piece of the nation’s history, inspiring reflection on the impact of its founding leader while celebrating craftsmanship and heritage.
What to enjoy or watch next
Interested bidders and the curious public can view the pen in person at Hotlotz’s Bukit Merah saleroom prior to the auction’s close on August 16 at 6pm. It is listed as Lot 51 and displayed alongside important paintings and ceramics by celebrated Singaporean artists including Lim Tze Peng, Chua Mia Tee, Chen Wen Hsi, and Iskandar Jalil.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, history admirer, or collector, following this auction offers a unique chance to witness Singapore’s cultural treasures change hands. Keep an eye on the final bidding outcomes as this and other standout pieces bring history to life in modern times.