#20 Heddon 3 Piece Two Tip Split Bamboo

Question
I have a question, you have answered before but i still have a question on the same topic.

You wrote about a #20 Heddon 9' 21/2F HCH D or G Split Bamboo Classic Fly Rod Probably From the 1930's or 40's with the black plastic Handle.

 If this Fly Pole with all the extra's (Sock and Case in medium condition) and the fly pole is in great condition how much would i get from a personal investor?

Answer
Hi Eelee,

A model #20 Heddon fly rod, 9'-2 1/2F-HCH D or G (also called the Bill Stanley favorite) with all four rod sections, all of the full length, plus the original rod bag and rod tube would be valued according to condition of the entire package.  Great is not one of the usual ratings used for condition, but it is descriptive of the rod.  Here are the details on the three ranges used by the value guide I refer to for rod values.

Poor-Fair condition............$80 - $100
Good-Very Good condition.......$175 - $225
Excellent-Mint condition.......$310 - $350

The lower end of each range is the actual figure in the book.  The book is over six years old but is the newest version.  The upper end of each range is my estimate of how the value has risen over time since the book was published.  You can use the ranges to roughly approximate the rod value as you interpret it...if you think it is Good, use the lower end of the range; if you think it is Very Good, use the upper end.  Your assessment of the rod's condition may vary from the assessment a potential buyer will make of the rod.  Most likely you will negotiate a price somewhere in the vicinity of these estimates.

The 9' model #20 is probably the most commonly found; but it is rare to find one in truly Mint condition.  Shorter fly rods are always more valuable than longer ones.  If the rod bag and rod tube are not in as good condition as the rod itself, the overall condition would be downgraded somewhat.  If the rod is like new, it will help hold the overall condition higher.  You need to be a bit critical and assess the overall condition of the package.  Don't criticize yourself into the Poor condition rating, just be fair.  Do your best and be comfortable with the price you set.

Hope this helps,  Joe