Lot # 24: Thomas Black’s 1902 Patent Double Roller Putter

Starting Bid: $1,000.00

Bids: 14 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Summer 2020",
which ran from 7/8/2020 12:00 PM to
7/25/2020 8:00 PM



Ever stub a putt? Thomas Black received a British patent (No. 11,463) dated May 20, 1902, that covered this double roller-sole putter that was designed to prevent such a result.  In his patent Black states that his rollers would “prevent the stroke of the club being spoiled by the head or sole of the club coming into contact with the ground or turf before reaching the ball, such a stroke being commonly known as ‘duffing.’ “

Blacks roller sole clubs were made by J&A Dickson of Edinburgh. As can be seen in the accompanying images, the sole is fitted with a metal plate that contains two metal cylinder rollers.  These clubs met with little acceptance. Few remain.  

The top of the head is strongly stamped “Black’s Patent No. 11,463” and “J&A Dickson, Makers Edinburgh.” The finish is original, as is the shaft and sheepskin grip.  The shaft is also stamped with the J&A Dickson maker mark.  Both rollers in the sole rotate freely.  This is a fabulous club!

TCA2 v2 p473

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