Info on an old fly rod

Question

4 Sections   QUESTION: Actually two rods-
1.  First is probably easiest.  I have a Shakespeare Marvel fly rod Model 1357 that appears to have been made around 1947 just after Shakespeare moved -- tag says Columbia, SC.  I was told by the original owner that the rod has never been fished, or probably even casted as everything is mint.  Has original gauze type bag that is only in fair condition as is the label.  I know these rods are not of much value but unused?

2.  Have attached photos of a very old rod that I believe in out of greenwood.  It is round, reddish brown, with a rattan handle.  This was given to my Dad in the early 1950's from a very elderly professor who said it was German, made in the 1860's.  Is 10', with 2 tips, though one is broken (my first try at casting in the 50's), hanging guides and in very good condition.  Original leather case is only fair and what I believe is the original bag in good condition.  Any idea if this is what my Dad was told and any value?  There are no names, writings or numbers on the rod.  Have additional photos if necessary.

Thanks for any input you can provide.

ANSWER: Hi Steve,

The Marvel model was introduced in 1936 and would have still been made in 1947.  The condition of the bag will be a slight negative on value.  in Mint codition, the rod would be valued in the $130-$160 range.

The Greenheart wood rod with hanging guides could easily be from the 1860s and could also be German made or any number of other European countries or American made.  Closeup photos of the reel seat, handle and ferrules might add more information; or not.  Many of the early makers used components from a common supplier; some made their own but many relied on early suppliers like Chubb (in the USA) to produce and provide metal parts.

In general, these older rods have value but not as high as the bamboo fly rods unless specific makers are involved.  With the broken tip it would be difficult to rate this one higher than Good on the condition scale.  In Good condition, a rod like this would be valued in the $120-$140 range.

Thanks,  Joe

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

QUESTION: Appreciate the information and have found a bit more on the older rod.  The ferrules look to be Nickel/Silver, rolled and soldered as is the tip top.  The hanging guides are brass.  The reel seat compares almost exactly with early 1880's Chubb seat.

Not sure if that helps you and I do have a number of pretty good pictures I could forward as this site only allows for 1.

Steve

Answer
Hi Steve,

If you want to forward some pictures to [email protected] I'll review them and send you a reply.

It sounds almost like it might be a later model rod (1880-1900) and it might even be American.  It may not be possible to pin it down to an exact maker, but I'm happy to look it over and try.

Thanks,  Joe