After all the problems cited regarding ebay purchases (and indeed there are some real cheats out there - the swines), I am happy to report that I bought a 1993 Cross Townsend with 14Kt nib at a good price from a chap who described it accurately right down to the last scratch and ding.

It shows its 15 years of wear and so will not win any beauty contests, but for my money I have a lovely, tough, reliable, workhorse of a pen that looks like the classic it is but was not so expensive I'd fear to take it out travelling with me. Most importantly, the nib is perfectly undamaged, as described. Thanks, Mr Seller!

Chris

Life is sweet at such moments! Seems like you found a great pen to enjoy for many years to come.