I also collect but mostly specific vintage fly fishing items. As with any antique, the key is condition, condition, condition, and uniqueness. Not scratched or worn. Often when I am appraising "Grampa's" old bamboo rods for people as an example they are sometimes akin to tomato stakes. Things to ask of the item, does it come with the original packaging, labels, instructions, boxes tubes etc. Lots of variables Collectors look for very specific items often manufactured in specific places. Some were manufactured in extremely large volumes at the time (blue-collar) and so do not hold as much value There is a lot of research to be done.
But if it is a family heirloom to some people they are priceless. There are gems out there as I still find goodies and love looking at people's finds. Hoping this helps.
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Often I have been exhausted on trout streams, uncomfortable, wet, cold, briar scarred, sunburned, mosquito bitten,
but never, with a fly rod in my hand have I been in a place that was less than beautiful.
My blog - casting on the waters
fishing regulations and facts on fish handling
Fishing Regulations
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