Lot # 56: Blockhead Putter

Starting Bid: $500.00

Bids: 1 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Summer Golf Auction 2019",
which ran from 7/3/2019 12:00 PM to
7/20/2019 8:00 PM



This unique rectangular block head putter is unmarked, but the shaft is stamped "R. Forgan & Son / St. Andrews / Selected".  The stain given to the shaft appears to be the same color as the head. (Any perceived slight difference in color between the two most likely has to do with the fact that the shaft and head are made from two different types of wood which have a different color to begin with.) The stain on the tip of the shaft also appears to be the same color and finish as the stain given to the entire sole.  Consequently, I believe Forgan made the entire club, not just the shaft. 

The circa 1890s head measures 5 1/2 inches in length, 2 1/4 inches in width, and 1 1/2 inches in face depth.  The club can be used right- and left-handed as well as shuffleboard style.  Only the RH face, however, is scored with very fine cross-hatching. The rear corner of the sole is slightly worn, but otherwise the clubhead is in magnificent condition!

The original sheepskin grip is missing it top inch and bottom two or so inches, though some of the underlisting remains in these areas. The tip of the shaft uses a wood piece that is wedged in the center of the shaft to help expand the tip of the shaft and thereby provide a tight fit. This is very similar to the treatment given to the tip of the shaft of the Anderson crescent irons patented in 1892.

The auctioneer has never seen another putter quite like this one.  A great piece!

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