Victorian figural mechanical pencils were often created to resemble critters. This one thinks it's a croc or a gator. The pencil is metal-bodied with a gold finish. Circa 1880. It is unmarked, likely made in England, America, or maybe France. The writing tip is deployed for writing by pulling out the tail of the beast - simultaneously pushing the tip out for business. The procedure is reversed to close for storage. This big reptile is 2 inches long closed and 3 1/2 inches in length extended.