A smooth-faced brass-headed putter by Forgan stamped “R Forgan & Son St Andrews” in circular form around the plume of ostrich feathers which form the crest of the Prince of Wales, a right conferred on him after making a set of clubs for the prince in 1863 and in use until 1901 when the prince ascended the throne as Edward VII and the device changed to a crown.

Below this is stamped “Wagle & Co Bombay”, this Mumbai sports company being a big importer of Forgan equipment. The straight dark-stained hickory shaft is probably a replacement of uncertain age. Firstly, it would be unusual for a Forgan club of this period not to have a maker’s, and probably also reseller’s, shaft-stamp. The “dings” on the hosel look like where it was gripped by a vice when reshafted. Nevertheless, the shaft is straight, fitted with a period suede grip and the club is both eyecatching and perfectly playable.

An excellent Christmas or birthday present.

Price $260.00 Reference: PUT462