Heddon casting rods

Question
Can you value this 4 1/2" 1924 Heddon #25 "Expert". Finest of three known to exist. With original labeled bag, stamped tube & original factory hang tag. Museum quality.  Earliest bag with embroidered label. Leatherette tube is stamped "Heddon's Dowagiac" on the genuine leather handle. Original hang tag tops off this incredible package.

Also can you tell the factory tip length for a 1932 Heddon #25 "President Expert" 5'  /  
Tip 35"?
62" total length

Also can you tell me the factory tip length for a 1940-1948 Heddon "JIM HEDDON'S FAVORITE" 6 FT., 2-PIECE (LIGHT ACTION) #600 1F edition    /
Tip 36"?
72" total length?

One last question a bit tougher.
I am trying to determine the correct tip length for a Circa 1915 Wm SHAKESPEARE JR. CO. 5-1/2 FT., 2-PIECE SPLIT BAMBOO BAIT CASTING ROD WITH THE SCARCE "DIAMOND SPIRAL" WINDINGS /
Tip 36 1/2"
68 1/4" total length?

If you do not have the information can you guide in the right direction?

Answer
Hi Mike,

My reference book does not list the 4 1/2' version of the 1924 #25 Expert specifically.  Typically, this rod, in Mint condition, would be valued in the $250-$300 range.

On the 1932 #25 President Expert, is the overall length assembled or unassembled?  Typically, on the casting rods, the butt section is several inches shorter than the tip section.  Nominally, one could measure the butt section and then subtract that length from the stated overall length to get the appropriate tip length.  The President Expert should have two tip sections to be a complete rod.  Value on this rod would be in the $60-$300 range depending on actual condition.

On the 1940-48 #600, the same applies.  The butt section is shorter, so the tip section should be the stated overall length less the length of the butt.  Value on this rod would be in the $40-$200 depending on actual condition.

The Shakespeare rod, Circa 1915, was probably made by Montague.   The shortened butt casting rod, and the short casting rod itself, were Heddon innovations and others quickly moved to copy the style and cash in on the Heddon success.  Assuming this rod is the same style, the correct tip length would be the stated overlal length less the length of the butt.  Value on this rod would be in the $25-$160 range depending on actual condition.

As you have no doubt noted, much of this is supposition on my part as my books (even my Heddon book) just don't provide the level of detail you seek.  The casting rods are much less well defined as compared to the fly rods.  You might try searching some of the bamboo fly rod forums, there are several, and post some questions on those sites.  The folks who like Heddon bamboo fly rods may also be better informed on the Heddon bamboo casting rods.

Hope this helps.

Thanks,  Joe