Zebra (zebra) G-pen nib The engraving reads: T. ISHIKAWA ZEBRA TOKYO JAPAN. This is a product of Zebra, one of the two major nib brands. 10 unused nibs are included, and shipping is free. This is a popular nib, also featured in the "4 Recommended Popular Rankings for Penmanship Dip Pens." The G-pen allows for expressive variations in line thickness, suitable for Japanese characters, as well as English and symbols. I've heard that penmanship teachers use it to write Reisho (Clerical script) and Tensho (Seal script) works. ◆About Nib Manufacturers◆ Lion Pen Nib was manufactured by LION, an office equipment company, but it is no longer in production. The manufacturing and sale of nibs ceased in 1996 (Heisei 8), and it is a brand of nibs that will eventually disappear. Currently, the Japanese nib brands on the market are Tachikawa, Nikko, and Zebra. Since the Nikko brand was taken over by Tachikawa, there are only two manufacturers: Tachikawa and Zebra. There are also claims that older nibs are better in performance. During the period of rapid economic growth around 1985 (Showa 60), the production of dip pens was 1 million gross (1 gross is 144 pieces), an astronomical figure. However, the trend shifted to ballpoint pens in government offices and banks as well. Regarding nibs: In the past, many nibs were manufactured, and there were many workers, including skilled craftsmen. It seems that they still use the manufacturing machines from that time. The number of workers has drastically decreased, and many of the skilled workers who manufactured during the mass production era were highly skilled. I've heard that some people say that the older ones are better, but please take it as a reference. Also, chrome-colored nibs show less deterioration and still maintain their original performance. I also enjoy penmanship and change nibs depending on what I write. Zebra nibs are one of my favorite nibs.