When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Vintage 1950s Rol‑Rite promotional pen engraved “Stolen from Joe E. Lewis.” This pen comes directly from the New York publicity office of Budd Granoff, who represented several major entertainers during the 1950s.
Item Details
Original Rol‑Rite pen
Gold and black body with red clicker
Engraved “Stolen from Joe E. Lewis”
Clip marked “BB Rol Rite”
Includes original ink cartridge (empty)
Minor surface wear and light scratching from age
Excellent pre‑owned vintage condition overall
A rare and authentic piece of 1950s entertainment promotional history
⭐ Provenance
This pen belonged to my aunt, who worked for Budd Granoff for 11 years in New York as his executive secretary during the 1950s. She regularly interacted with entertainers and was well‑liked for her warm personality and gentle humor. She kept several promotional items from the Granoff office among her belongings.
Included with her things were this pen, her résumé listing Budd Granoff as her last employer, and original office envelopes from 36 Central Park South.Photos of these items are included in the listing for provenance only and are not part of the sale. We are selling the pen only.
Why This Pen Is Special
Joe E. Lewis was a legendary nightclub comic and singer, and authentic promotional items tied to his career are uncommon. This pen is a classic example of the playful novelty pieces used in the entertainment world at the time — especially with the red clicker that inspired the “redhead” joke used across these pens.
A great addition for collectors of:
Joe E. Lewis memorabilia
Nightclub and 1950s entertainment history
Vintage promotional items
New York show‑business ephemera
