Speedball's proud heritage for pen-making began in 1899, when the C. Howard Hunt Pen Company began manufacturing and distributing steel pens.  Nearly two decades later, in 1913, Hunt sought to improve upon the functionality of the lettering tools of the day and joined forces with master letterers Ross F. George and William H. Gordon in 1913 to contrive and perfect a nib with a reservoir.  It was nicknamed “Speedball” because of the efficiency of the pen, which cut working time in half.  

Since that time, the Speedball name has become synonymous with high-quality pen nibs.  In addition, Speedball now proudly manufactures a suite of complementary products.  From pen holders to dip inks & cleaners to calligraphy markers and fountain pens, Speedball offers the broadest range of supplies designed specifically for your drawing & lettering works.