South bend rod

Question
I have located aolder South Bend Fly rod in a antique/pawn shop. It is a two piece rod approxiately 9 ft long. The markings  are "South Bend Fly Rods #323-9". Its bamboo. Im not a fly fisherman (yet) and wanted to know if its a good rod and the approximate value. Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.
Mark

Answer
Mark ,
The Price book:
Antique %26 Collectable Fishing Rods: Identification %26 Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.

Homel gives the 8.5  South Bend model #323 with an extra tip, 3 sections a value of  $35, 90 and $165 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively. So you can see condition affects value .

An 9 foot rod is less collectible and valuable. As well the 59 model series were  not the top of a medium price line.

Homel gives the 9' South Bend model #23 with an extra tip, 3 sections a value of  $35, 80 and $150 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively. So you can see condition affects value .
   
Your rod is dry fly action  indicated by the initial 3.

Not the best fishing tool but not the worst. I'd fish it .

I quote these books written by researchers so you know I am not making it all up, But I include my experience as well.

It has taken me the best part of an hour to write this up , please take a few seconds to provide feedback. Please remember I am a volunteer , the feedback is the only result I get from doing this.

Luck,
Mac

Please provide feedback, nominations are appreciated.