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5’6” Heddon Bamboo Bait Casting Trade Rod No. 1209, Scarce, c. 1930s
Manufacturer: Heddon®
SOLD
Product Sold
Offered is this very nice example of a scarce Heddon trade rod made around the 1930s.  The rod is marked in standard Heddon fashion above the winding check as a model #1209 at 5’6” in length.  The actual assembled length is 5’5” and is believed to be original (based on the condition of the wraps, wrap spacing, no evidence of replaced pins in ferrules, and length of rod).  The rod is wrapped in purple and gold silks (both darkened under aged varnish).  All guides and wraps appear original; unfortunately, the first guide on the butt section is missing.  With this exception, all other guides, wraps and ferrules are tight.  The ferrule fit is excellent.  The varnish is in good, stable condition; however, there are a few spots where the varnish is thinner than the rest of it, creating lighter spots on the cane.  The cane is structurally sound, but there are a few seams showing (please see last two photos - one may be a hook dig, but it is on the seam).  The tip section has a slight set to the right.  The rod sports Heddon’s fully-functional spiral locking reel seat with a finger grip.  The sections measure 31 1/4” (butt) and 34 3/4" (tip).  The rod weighs 4.35 ounces and tapers to a size 15 ferrule.  This translates into a Light bait casting rod.  I have been able to locate only one other rod of this model and consider this to be a scarce trade rod.  If you would like to view photos of the other identical rod for comparison, please contact me for the link.  The rod will be securely packaged in a protective pvc tube for safe transport and storage.  Thank you.