From the World Golf Hall of Fame collection, formerly on display in St. Augustine, Florida, this left-handed long nose putter is Stamped "W. Dunn." However, unlike a name made with a genuine clubmaker’s stamp, Dunn’s name is stamped on the head one letter at a time. This was done by Laurie Auchterlonie, who also cleaned up the finish, installed a new sueded leather grip on the 34 ½” shaft, and stamped the shaft “Restored by Laurie Auchterlonie.” The clubhead does not look like it was made by Dunn. Not only does it seem out of character for a Dunn club, but it also appears distinctly older.

Dunn, born in 1821, would have started making his clubs during the 1840s. This club looks more like it was made around the time he was born, if not before. The thicker nature of the head and the rounded perimeter around the top of the head behind the face are elements not typically found in other Dunn clubs. A quick review of the other Dunn putter in this auction, which fits the 1840s and is consistent with other Dunn clubs, reveals major differences between it and this putter.

In keeping with its older age, this Dunn-marked head measures 6" long, 2 1/8" wide, and 1 1/8" in face depth. While I do not believe the head was made by Willie Dunn, it has an outstanding shape and speaks to major age. The WGHOF inventory number “262” is discreetly written on the lead backweight, and Auchterlonie’s personal mark is discreetly engraved on the sole.

Feather-ball-era clubs like this one were made when there were few golfers in the world. Today, they are among the most prized antique clubs.

Letter of Authenticity from the World Golf Hall of Fame