Fred D. Devine Bamboo Rod Value & Appraisal - Divine Special

Question
I have a Fred D Devine co. bamboo rod it is 9 ft and 6inches in lenght, 4 3/4 oz Seriel number H8107 Style "Divine Special."  This rod is in mint condition with a spare tip in its original case and an original factory tag.  Sorry I do not have a pic at this time.  Can you tell me the approximate value of this fly rod.  Thank you Cliff

Answer
Cliff,
I think you mean Divine not Devine.
Sources:
Price Book:
Antique & Collectible  Fishing Rods: Identification & Value Guide by Homel, Dan. 1997 (2nd edition 2000) add about 30% for age of book.
Bamboo Rod Restoration Handbook   by Michael Sinclair
I am assuming your rod is a fly rod , reel below handle and bamboo with flat sides not round.
Serial number of H is 1917.
The special is not mentioned in Homel but gives a same length , 3 section similar rod the  value of  $50, 145 and $275 for poor, good, and excellent condition respectively. I sol a similar Divine 2 years ago for $300.

It makes me smile, but everyone tells me their rod looks mint but very few are correct. So I have a hard time with it. Unless you have a seen or fished  bamboo rods, how can you tell the condition ?

Mint means unused- brand new
If unused - the finish is smooth, even, without cracks. The threads too.
all sections are even in length an straight.
The cork should be blond to tan - no black on it.
Thee rod fits together and when pulled apart - pops.

Luck,
Mac

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