Retro 51 Tornado Smithsonian Bison Standing Strong Rollerball / Ballpoint

Retro 51 Tornado Smithsonian Bison Standing Strong Rollerball / Ballpoint

The Retro 51 Tornado Smithsonian Bison Standing Strong Rollerball / Ballpoint celebrates the American bison, the National Mammal of the United States and an enduring symbol of strength, resilience and determination. Officially licensed by the Smithsonian, the design is inspired by the Smithsonian’s Bison: Standing Strong exhibition and the remarkable resurgence of a species that has played an important role in American history.

The American bison also has a special connection with the Smithsonian. More than a century ago, living bison grazed on Smithsonian grounds near the Castle as part of early conservation efforts. In 2026, marking the United States’ 250th anniversary, bison returned to the National Mall in the form of three larger-than-life bronze sculptures permanently installed at the entrance to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.

The Tornado features acid-etched bison across a stonewashed copper barrel, creating a timeworn appearance reminiscent of a vintage American coin. Stonewashed pewter accents complement the rugged finish, while Smithsonian detailing includes branding around the top ring and the recognizable Smithsonian sun logo on the top disc. The classic knurled twist-top mechanism completes this distinctive Retro 51 design.

A Tribute to the American Bison

• Officially licensed Smithsonian writing instrument
• Inspired by the Smithsonian Bison: Standing Strong exhibition
• Celebrates the American bison and its conservation story
• Acid-etched bison artwork
• Stonewashed copper barrel
• Stonewashed pewter accents
• Smithsonian sun logo on the top disc
• Numbered top ring; the pen is not a limited edition
• Signature Retro 51 knurled twist-top mechanism
• Supplied with a black rollerball refill
• Presented in a commemorative Retro 51 tube

Specifications

• Collection: Retro 51 Tornado Smithsonian
• Model: Bison Standing Strong
• Writing system: Rollerball / Ballpoint
• Barrel: Stonewashed copper with acid-etched bison
• Trim: Stonewashed pewter
• Mechanism: Knurled twist-top
• Top disc: Smithsonian sun logo
• Refill supplied: Black rollerball refill
• Length: 125 mm / 5 inches
• Diameter: 12 mm / 0.45 inches
• Weight: 28 g / 1 oz
• Edition: Numbered, not limited
• Packaging: Commemorative Retro 51 tube

Standing Strong: History, Conservation and American Heritage

Combining Smithsonian history with Retro 51’s distinctive Tornado design, the Bison Standing Strong is more than an everyday writing instrument. Its weathered copper appearance, detailed bison artwork and Smithsonian references make it a meaningful collectible for Retro 51 enthusiasts, wildlife lovers and anyone fascinated by American history and conservation.

The Retro 51 Tornado Pen can easily be converted from rollerball to ballpoint by changing the refill. The Retro 51 Tornado pens use a Retro 51 rollerball refill (included) or standard international ballpoint refill.

Abour Retro 51

Retro 51 abides by the motto that "Life is too short to carry an ugly pen!" The company is based in Dallas, Texas, and produces fashionable gift items that combine modern design with vintage quality.