South Bend fly rod value

Question

rod label   QUESTION: I have a South Bend bamboo fly rod that I would like to find out the value of. The tag says Rod No. 55, Length 8 1/2 ft.,Made in the U.S.A. It is a three piece rod and has a 3/8" diameter above the cork handle. The fact that it has a tag leads me to believe it was probably mass produced

ANSWER: Kyle
I have never seen a SB rod label on the cork handle . Am I getting your picture right ? I have seen over fifty and have books that say your number 55 and a label should be on the rod itself. The first 55 was made in 1936. It was their Best of Luck Series, the lowest cost of a low quality rod  costing $2.50. The model continued thru the end of SB bamboo rods in the early 50s.
Without a confirmation that your rod has labels, writing or logos on the bamboo itself, your rod has no value.
I confirm my information in Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook by Michael Sinclair .

Price Book:
Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.

Homel doesn't mention the 55 but gives the SB Model #46 trout fly rod 8 1/2' . 1940  with an extra tip, 3 sections the  value of  $40, 100 and $195 for poor, good, excellent condition respectively. If your rod is a SB then these figures would be close but I would need more information to confirm that. I would need detailed pictures and descriptions of all writing , labels and logos on the rod itself. As well, general pictures showing the handle, the reel seat , the ferrules and guides.

Luck,
Mac

Please provide feedback, nominations are appreciated.

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

QUESTION: Thankyou for your response. Yes, you are seeing the picture correctly, the label is on the handle. There are no other identifying marks on the rod. So, if I am understanding you correctly, my rod has no value?

Answer
Kyle,
No we can't say your rods has low or high value because we can't Id it properly.
To get a maker model  I would need more information. I would need detailed pictures and descriptions of all writing , labels and logos on the rod itself. As well, general pictures showing the handle, the reel seat , the ferrules and guides. to [email protected]
My guess is that is as you say "mass produced"
luck
Mac