Designed
to replace the deep-groove backspin irons declared illegal by the
R&A in 1921, Mac & Mac of Oak Park, Illinois, introduced their
Deep Dimple Face iron in 1923. These new irons used large round holes
cut into the face in order to create backspin and eliminate side spin.
This mashie niblick, made from Granger steel and so marked, is in great original condition. The back is well marked and the grip/shaft are
original. There is old red paint in the holes on the face. The auctioneer has never seen red paint in one of these before, but this paint is old and appears to be from the era when the club was in use. It is possible that the paint is original to this club, but it is also possible that it is not. The consignor left the paint in place because it can easily be removed (without affecting the appearance of the club), but never put back if it proves to be original at a later date —if Deep Dimple Face irons with red paint that match it are found. It's possible that Mac and Mac made the club with and without paint. No matter, with or without dimple paint, this club strikes a great look!
For more on the Deep Dimple Face iron, see TCA2 v1 p 277