Are Old Golf Clubs Worth Anything?

Whether you play in tournaments or simply enjoy golf as a hobby, the chances are you've gone through several club levels. No doubt, when you first started, you participated in beginner-friendly clubs, and as you progressed, moved up to ones that better suit your style.

But what do you do with the old clubs you no longer use? Are they even worth anything? We'll share how to value your old clubs and which vintage ones sell for the most. Read on for everything you need to know.

Valuing Your Old Golf Clubs

Rarity

As with almost everything of value, one of the most significant indicators that your golf club might be worth something is its rarity. Take the club (or clubs) that you suspect may be rare and give them a once-over for indications they might be limited or special edition. Features to look out for include:

• Wooden materials: specifically, wood heads, thick-necked wood clubs, and deep groove wood shaft clubs
• Unique or unusual head shapes, including unmarked or distinctive markings
• Smooth face irons by producers such as Army and Navy, Dunn, Gray, White, Forgan, Anderson, and Carrick
• Unique patented features that appeal to player improvement 

If your club(s) have any signs of the above, you may very well be onto a winner.

Authenticity

Often, another reason why a club might be worth more than you'd expect is if it is an authentic, high-quality brand. We live in a world where designer brands are luxurious and sought-after, from cars and clothes to homes and golf accessories. If one of your old clubs is a well-known, high-quality brand, and - crucially - you can prove it, the odds will be much more in your favor.

If you're unsure of the authenticity of your clubs - because knock-offs are quite common - a good idea is to have them checked over by a professional. This professional will also be able to give you a rough idea of their worth, which will help you in your decision to sell or not.

History

This next one is - in our opinion - the most exciting of all indicators that your golf club(s) might be worth a lot of money. It's all about the club's history. When considering this, you must learn about the club's previous owners and how it was used. Ask questions such as, who were the previous owners? Was the club used in any big tournaments? Beyond tournaments, was the club used in any famous event? Was it created specifically for a particular player? If so, who and why?

If the answers to any of those questions lead you to discover something fascinating, you'll be in luck. The chances are, you'll be aware of if you have a famous club in your possession, but you never know - and it's always worth checking.

Club Maker

This point is related to the earlier one regarding authenticity. While the above was more concerned with whether the club was a genuine article or a knock-off, this one is all about which brands and designers are the big names to look out for.

Given that golf originated in Scotland, it won't be surprising to learn that many of the brands bringing in the big bucks are from there, too. Both Sayers and St Andrews Golf Co. are looming and original names in the golfing world, while clubs by Calloway, Honma, and Bentley will also pack a punch.

Compare With Recently Sold Clubs

The final thing you can do to try to ascertain whether your clubs will be worth anything is to check out those recently sold. Spending time at your local auction house might give you a good idea of the market, as will being active on online forums and social media pages dedicated to selling vintage clubs.

If you have any friends thinking of selling their clubs as well, it might be worth making a day of it and visiting some auction houses together. Ultimately, knowing what has been sold before and for how much will help you understand any value in your own clubs.

What Are the Highest Value Vintage Golf Clubs Ever Sold?

1. Anderson Dicken Putter

This putter dates back to the 1700s and comes in as the most expensive golf club ever sold - for a whopping $181,000.

2. Simon-Cosser Putter

This fruitwood and metal club by the prestigious Cossar Club brand had a long history starting in the 17th century. This led to it being sold for $165,000. 

3. Squire Toe Lined Iron Golf Club

Another 17th-century relic - and one of only 12 like it, no less - this club sold for an impressive $151,000.

4. Golden Putter First Lady Special Edition

As the name suggested, this club was diamond-encrusted and made of 24-carat gold, built by Barth and Sons. It sold for no less than $150,000.

5. Long-Nosed Scarped Golf Club

Built in the 1800s and somehow still in near-pristine condition, this wooden club was authenticated and sold for $91,000.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Know If My Old Golf Clubs Are Worth Money?

There are five primary ways to check if your old golf clubs are worth any money. They are to find out its rarity, figure out its history and then check its authenticity, discover its maker, and compare your findings to recently sold clubs.

Final Thoughts

While you will likely have at least some idea that the clubs in your possession might be worth some big bucks, it's always important to check. The main way to do this is to learn about its history and rarity. Then, diligently check its authenticity, discover its maker, and compare what you have to recently sold clubs.

If you're lucky, you'll get a pretty penny, which you can reinvest into your golf career and equipment. Check out new accessories, golf bags, and apparel at Stitch Golf!