granger aristocrat fly rod

Question
While going through some of my aunts stuff, we came across a fly rod from her dad.  

the markings on the rod show it to be a Granger Aristocrat.  It is a 3 pole setup w/an extra tip.  Put together, they  are 114 1/2" AND 112".

The markings on the handle are APR12-1938
2114.207  from Denver Wright AND McGill

There are a few spots where the varnish has peeled, but not much.  It is still in the metal tube wrapped in a velvet, 3 pocket sock.

Just curious about its value?

Answer
Hi Trey,

You have a later-era Granger Aristocrat, by Wright-McGill, which is more or less a mid-level Granger probably made in the late 1940s or early 1950s.  Probably sold for around $40.00 when new.  The markings on the rod should be rubber stamped on the rod under the finish.  The markings on the reel seat should be stamped into the seat.  The 2,114,107 is the patent number.

Typically, 9-1/2 foot rods are less desirable than shorter models and tend to be less valuable.  However, the Aristocrat is a quality rod.  Assuming the rod bag and tube are original and in good condition; you indicate the rod has one short tip section (which affects value) and it has some varnish peeling or alligatoring in spots.  I doubt the rod could be rated any higher than Good condition at best.  This would put the estimated value in the $200-$300 range.

If you were to have it restored it might come close to double that, but would likely cost more than the increase to get it restored.  One problem with restoration of this rod is the rubber stamping.  It is very easy to damage or destroy the markings in the process which would make it virtually impossible to prove the rod is a Granger.  Choose your restorer carefully if you decide to have the work done.

If the rod is in good fishable condition, you may want to use it.  It should be a nice rod to fish with.  You may also want to keep it in its current condition as a family heirloom.

Thanks,  Joe