Vernley fly rod

Question
I have a Vernley bamboo fly rod that is in excellent condition. It is approx. 7.5 feet long. I do not know anything about bamboo rods. It is at least 35 to 40 years old maybe even older. Is it considered an antique?

Answer
Hi Bert,

Most likely a Horrocks-Ibbotson rod, Vernley is the model name.  Vernley should be written on the rod just above the cork handle in white ink with the writing going toward the cork handle.  The Vernley model was made in the 1930s, 1940s and 1950s with some cosmetic changes along the way.  The wrap colors, cork, reel seat and the decal will be clues to narrow down the right decade of manufacture.  The Vernley model was one of the better H-I rods made with a relatively high selling price of $30 in the 1940s.

If it is possible for you to send me some photos of the rod, send them to [email protected] and I'll review them for you.  This rod does have decent collector value and is definitely considered an antique.   Also please provide the following information:

Is the rod 7'6" or 7'9" in length? (I assume it is a two piece rod?)
Do you have one butt section and two tips sections?
Do you have the original rod bag?
Do you have the original rod tube?
Are there any broken or missing components?
Is there any obvious damage to any part of the rod?

If you can provide answers and photos, I can narrow down the exact vinatge and estimate the value.

Thanks,  Joe