Shakespeare rod

Question
I have a Shakespeare Fly Rod  #1304 9' Paragon  1936  I was given the rod along with Heddon Pal # 8405 Mark3 8' Fas Tip Action. I am missing the second section on the Shakespear, the handle and two tips are in great shape and I would like to find a replacement for it. The Heddon does not look like is been used a all, both rods have the orginal cloth bags and tubes. Can you give me a approximate value on each for insurance reasons.  Thank You for Your Time    Gary

Answer
Hi Gary,

The Shakespeare #1304 is worth very little since the mid section is missing.  If you haunt the flea markets and garage sales you may find a suitable replacement rod section.  It is likely that what you find will not be a Shakespeare mid section, but another brand that will work reasonably well.  The ferrules will likely be different in shape, size and possibly even composition, but you can have all the ferrules on the rod changed so it works and fits together properly.  Once you have it back in shape for fishing it will probably be valued in the $60-$100 range depending on actual condition.  

If you could find the original mid section, the value would be about 50% higher.  The earlier Shakespeare bamboo rods are more desirable than the later models, but the market is not real strong for this brand.  It is improving as the early models (like yours) are being appreciated more as they age.  It is a plus that you have both the original bag and tube.

The Heddon #8405 was probably made around the mid 1960s.  Heddon called this a Controlled Flex Action and the rod sold for about $32.95 new.  In Excellent condition, this rod would be valued in the #50-$60 range; perhaps a little higher sincxe you have the original bag and tube.

Thanks,  Joe