hardy bamboo rod and reed

Question
QUESTION: I have my grandfathers rod and reel purchased in the 30's...a gift from my grandmother for my grandfather....an avid fisherman.  the rod is a 9 ft split (maybe double split)  bamboo rod e17346 with the royal stamp on the butt...patent # is 20875/22.  there is a black butt as well.
the reel is the perfect fly reel. 3 7/8 inches...patent #24245&9261 Mark V.  Any information would be much appreciated.

ANSWER: Hi Deralyn,

From the serial number this rod would have been made in 1929.  The patent number applies to more than one model.  Does this rod have a model name written on it?

Actual condition of the rod would also impact its value.  Are all rod sections present?  Are the original rod bag and tube present?  How would you describe the condition?

Reels are not my area of expertise.  The Hardy Perfect in 3 7/8 size is likely equal to or more valuable than the rod.  The combination, depending on rod model and condition of both, could be in the $1,000-$2,000 range.

You may be able to get some assistance in identifying specific dates and values for this rod and reel by contacting Hardy directly in the UK.  Try this web site for a contact at hardy.

http://fly.hardyfishing.com/en%2Dus/home/

Thanks,  Joe

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for your specific information for my grandfathers rod.  The rod has all its parts and the wooden end plugs. The rod bag and tube are not here.  Condition is good, however in 2 places the green wrapping has parted.  the only other words on the rod that may be of significance are "made  for  B.H. Dyas Co. Los Angeles, USA". Is there a product i can use safely to clean the metal on the butt? I will contact Hardy directly for reel information.  Thanks again.

Answer
Hi Deralyn,

Sounds like the D.B. Hyas Company may have been a retailer of sporting goods and paid Hardy to make fly rods for them.  That is a fairly common practice.

If the metal parts are brass (yellowish color), then Brasso will clean them up with some elbow grease.  If they are bright or silver looking they are probably German Silver (brass coated in nickel) and you can clean them with "0000" steel wool and elbow grease.

If you can find a local rod builder, the green wraps can be replaced easily.  If you can't find a rod builder, let me know where you live and I'll suggest someone...I know a lot of rod builders.

Thanks,  Joe