Every time I go to a yard sale or public auction, I always look for vintage or collectible billiards equipment, especially old pool cues.  I always dream of finding some lost gem like an old Herman Rambow, George Balabushka or Frank Paradise cue that someone had tucked away in their basement or garage.  Of course, I've never found anything that was worth much, but it is fun looking.  Many times people don't know the value of items that they have.  

If you have similar interests, you might want to check out some of the listings on this page to get a feel for what old cues look like.  Sometimes they don't look like much, compared to the elaborate cues that are so commonplace today.  These listings can give you a good idea of what these types of cues are worth.  

If you are even considering searching for or buying a new or vintage cue, then you really should pick up a copy of the Blue Book of Pool Cues
.  This book is an invaluable resource for learning about the history of cuemaking and the components and tools used to construct a cue.  The book is on its third edition now.  The author, Brad Simpson, has put a ton of work into each edition to continually add more and more value and great information.  Whether your looking for classic cues from Gus Szambotti or from modern masters like Richard Black, this book is filled with information and contact information for most cuemakers.   Almost 300 pages longer than the 2nd Edition, this new book is packed with illustrations, images and loads of new information on cue makers, cue models, and up-to-date pricing. There are many color images.

This book is worth every penny. At Amazon, you can look inside the book before you buy.

There is another book that I highly recommend. It is The Billiard Encyclopedia. It is now on its third edition, too. I bought this book when the first edition came out. This is a great book. It is jam-packed full of historical information about billiards. It has lots of great illustrations and photos throughout. It is the type of book that is a good "coffee table" book that looks great and is a good conversation piece, even to those that aren't die-hard pool fans. There are sections on legendary cue makers that is a great resource for people that want to learn more about collecting. I have to tell you, this book is hard to find. If you find one and can afford it, you should buy it. I'll post the link to Amazon, sometimes they have copies available.

I did another search for you to find a copy, below...

The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards by Michael
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards by Michael
   US $26.50
The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards Complete
The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards Complete
   US $8.75
The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards by Mic
The New Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards by Mic
   US $65.04
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards Michael Ian
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards Michael Ian
   US $11.80
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Billiards
   US $18.20
 
Powered by phpBay Pro

I hope you find these resources helpful to you. Searching for and collecting vintage cues can be very rewarding. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions or tips that could help others.

Cheers,
Skippy

Leave a Comment

Previous post: Learn how to Master the Jump Shot

Next post: Cuetec Cues: Buyer’s Guide