Skip to content

What is “Decommissioned?”

Posted in Fountain Pens

I’ve had a few questions, over the past year, about my pen statuses. Most commonly, I’ve been asked about “decommissioned” pens. Since that status appears to confuse people, I’d like to explain what the various statuses I use mean.


In Rotation: A pen I own that is in active rotation use.

On Break: A pen I own that is not in active rotation. Typically, these are pens I’m trying to decide if I want to sell.

Decommissioned: A pen I own but is not in active rotation use. These are pens I’m keeping for sentimental or historical value, but either don’t work or have a defect that preclude use.

With Jim: A pen I’ve given, or loaned indefinitely, to Jim.

Out for Repair: A pen that is out for some type of work. This could be repair, nib work, or customization. I should change the name of this status, really.

For Sale: A pen I’m actively selling through one or more forums, but haven’t actually sold yet.

Not Yet Arrived: A pen I’ve ordered or commissioned that hasn’t made it to me. I only count pens I’ve paid for, either in part or in full.

Sold: Pretty self-explanatory.

Returned: Also self-explanatory.

Gifted: A pen I’ve gifted, typically to a friend, in attempt to infect them with the fountain pen virus and gain another soul for the collective. Muahahaha.

PIF’d: Once upon a time, there was a non-profit organization known as PIF (Pay It Forward). They had a table at a few pen shows which I contributed to.

Lost: Another self-explanatory one.


So, those are the statuses I use for my pens. I hope that clears things up for everyone. Do you assign statuses to your pens? Let me know in the comments.

Make sure to subscribe to my blog or follow me on Instagram so you don’t miss any posts. I generally post at least once a week.

Be First to Comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *