Robotrol Rod Holder Value & History (Patent #s 2317455 & 2393090)

Question
Marc,

Do you know anything about Robotrol Rod Holders. My dad has one and he would like to know if it has any antique value. It was made by Robotrol, Inc. of South Bend, IN. It was made for a wooden boat and has a metal spike that is used to anchor it in the wood. There are two patent #'s on the label: 2317455 & 2393090.

Thanks,
Stan

Answer
Hi Stan,

I don't know too much about the item, but I did some investigating and found a little information about the value.  

A great research tool these days is e-bay.  I can tell you that on e-bay auctions recently they have sold for anywhere from about $10 to $30.  It's probably worth more if you have the original packaging and even more if it's in new to mint condition.

Bottom line though, it's probably only worth about $40 at top end.