Vintage Brunswick Willie Hoppe Professional Pool Cue
Decorative and Sporting Object, Wooden Sports Equipment in Fitted Case • Brunswick-Balke-Collender Company, associated with legendary billiard player Willie Hoppe
Style & Movement
Mid-century American Sporting Americana and Industrial Design
Medium & Technique
Turned hardwoods (such as maple and ebony), brass joint hardware, fiber/plastic collars, hand-finished and polished wood construction
Creation Period
Mid-20th century, circa 1930s-1950s
Dimensions & Format
Standard two-piece pool cue approximately 58 inches in total length when assembled, housed in a rectangular fitted carrying case approximately 32 inches in length
Subject Description
A two-piece professional billiard/pool cue featuring traditional spliced points, a brass pin joint, wrapped grip section, and a custom fitted velvet-lined hardshell storage case
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $350
Auction Estimate
$100 - $250
Provenance History
Likely acquired by a mid-century billiards enthusiast or professional player, handed down through private ownership, preserved within its original fitted storage case
Art Historical Significance
Represents the golden age of American pocket billiards and carom billiards, bearing the endorsement and design influence of Willie Hoppe, one of the greatest billiard champions of all time
Notable Features
Includes the original vintage hardshell carrying case with a vibrant red velvet or plush interior lining, distinctive brass latches, and signature Brunswick-associated Willie Hoppe cue design elements
Condition Issues
Broken shaft ring pieces, visible wear and tear on the wooden components, patina and oxidation on the exposed brass hardware, and potential slight warping typical of vintage wooden cues
Conservation Recommendations
Professional repair of the broken shaft ring and collar by a specialized cue maker, cleaning and conditioning of the wood, polishing of the brass joint, and maintaining stable temperature and humidity conditions in the storage case
Collector Notes
Vintage Brunswick Willie Hoppe pool cue stick with broken shaft ring pieces