This iron blade putter has a genuine wrought iron head, much like the early cleeks and lofters hand forged during the second half of the 19th century.  It also has a thin blade, 4 1/2" inch hosel, and superficial nicking that is typical of late 19th century irons. The 35" shaft itself and its leather-wrapped grip are typical of late 19th century/early 20th century shafts and grips.  The significantly darker black color across much of the hosel is possibly chemically induced. What appears to be a short tear at the top of the hosel is evidence of damage, not great age. The auctioneer cannot identify the past history of this club, only that it is not from the featherball era.

A previous owner liked the squarish toe and dated the club to the late 18th century and included that date on a tag he attached to the shaft. Again, the auctioneer is unable to justify such an early date. It is up to the next owner to believe what they will.