1242
A stunning EF Payne model 97 fly rod, 7', 2-piece, 2-tips and weighing 3.2 ounces. Rare beyond belief, this rod is not just mint but still has the paper and gum strips on the grip. And to top it all off it is an uplocking screwlock model in this size, something I have never seen in this model. Dry fly action. Late 1950's construction date. This rod has all the Payne hallmarks, from the node layout to the perfect varnish to the brown wraps tipped yellow. An extra band of purple can be found at the keeper and male ferrule. The stripper is a perfection and the snakes are HSS high arch. Small hoop tip tops. The step ferrules are oxidized and have the finial ferrule plug. The grip is in the western style with a hidden pocket in the heel and is 6" long. As previously stated the grip has the original paper and gum strips and "7' #97" is inked on the paper, likely from Jim Payne's own hand. The screwlock spacer is spanish cedar and the varnish shows a bit of bag imprint. The uplocking screwlock is stamped "Payne" in a cartouche and "Reg US Pat Off". On the reverse is "Sold by, Abercrombie and Fitch, New York". The tan cloth bag has the original hang tag lettered "30973, 7 Feet, 3 1/4" oz, #97". The rod tube has the red Abercrombie and Fitch sticker about 98% intact and lettered at the bottom "E3 7' 3 1/4 oz #97 Locking". The brass rod tube cap retains the grey felt. I talked to one very knowledgeable Payne collector about this rod and he said to me "It must be the only one in existence in that condition". I agree.
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