Appraisily

June 19, 2023

Vintage PING Putter Values: Collector's Guide to Rare Models & Pricing

Discover what makes old PING putters valuable, from rare Scottsdale models to Redwood City classics. Learn how to identify collectible putters and get current market values.

Vintage PING Anser putter from the Scottsdale era showing authentic patina and original grip
By Appraisily Team Last updated June 19, 2023
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Introduction to Vintage PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">PING putters, particularly vintage models, have become highly collectible items among golf enthusiasts and collectors. Created by engineering visionary Karsten Solheim beginning in the late 1950s, these putters revolutionized golf club design with their innovative engineering and distinctive sound - the &ldquo;ping&rdquo; that gave the company its name. Today, certain vintage PING putters command impressive prices in the collector&rsquo;s market, with some rare models valued at over $1,000.</div>

This comprehensive guide will help you understand what makes old PING putters valuable, how to identify collectible models, and current market values for these iconic golf clubs. Whether you’ve discovered an old PING putter in your garage or you’re actively building a collection, this information will help you determine its potential worth.

Key PING Putter Value Indicators

  • Location: Redwood City putters (1967-1969) typically worth $1,000+

  • Production Era: Scottsdale putters with ZIP code (1966-1973) valued $100-500+

  • Material: Beryllium copper models command significant premiums

PING Putter Historical Timeline

  1. 1959

    Beginning of PING

    Karsten Solheim creates the first PING putter, the 1A, working out of his garage in Redwood City, California.
  2. 1966

    PING Anser Introduction

    The revolutionary PING Anser putter is introduced, featuring the now-iconic heel-toe weighted design that would influence putter design for decades.
  3. 1967-1969

    Redwood City Era

    Putters produced in Redwood City, California. These are among the most valuable PING putters today due to their rarity.
  4. 1969-1973

    Early Scottsdale Era

    Production moves to Scottsdale, Arizona. Early Scottsdale putters with the ZIP code marking are highly collectible.
  5. 1973-1986

    Later Scottsdale Era

    Production continues in Scottsdale without ZIP code. These models are collectible but generally less valuable than earlier versions.
  6. 1980s

    Beryllium Copper Models

    Introduction of beryllium copper putters, which would become highly sought after by collectors.
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>What Makes Old PING Putters Valuable?</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Several key factors determine the value of vintage PING putters. Understanding these elements will help you assess whether your old PING putter might be worth a significant sum or is a more common model with moderate collector appeal.</div>

Manufacturing Location and Era

The production location is perhaps the most critical value factor for vintage PING putters:

  1. Redwood City Models (1967-1969): These earliest production models, made in California before PING moved to Arizona, are the most valuable vintage PING putters. Identified by “Redwood City, Cal.” stamping, these rare putters typically start at $1,000 in good condition.

  2. Scottsdale with ZIP Code (1969-1973): Early Scottsdale-produced putters featuring the “Scottsdale, AZ 85282” marking are highly collectible, with values often exceeding $100 and reaching several hundred dollars for desirable models in excellent condition.

  3. Scottsdale without ZIP Code (1973-1986): Later Scottsdale models without the ZIP code are less valuable but still collectible, typically ranging from $40-100 depending on condition and model.

Materials and Special Editions

Beryllium Copper Models: PING putters made from beryllium copper (BeCu) command premium prices. These clubs offer a softer feel and develop a distinctive patina over time. Beryllium copper PING putters can sell for several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on model and condition.

Manganese Bronze: The material Karsten Solheim chose for his earliest models - Manganese Bronze - helped define the PING putter. These early bronze putters often command higher prices due to their historical significance.

Model Type

Different PING putter models vary significantly in collectibility and value:

  • Anser Series: The most iconic PING putters, especially early versions, are highly sought after
  • 1-A: The original PING putter model has significant historical value
  • Zing: Popular models with moderate collector value
  • My Day: Distinctive design with dedicated collector following
  • Pal: Early blade-style putters with good collector interest
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>How to Identify Valuable PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Knowing how to properly identify vintage PING putters is essential for determining their potential value. Several key markers and characteristics can help you identify whether your PING putter might be a valuable collector&rsquo;s item.</div>

Serial Numbers and Markings

PING putter serial numbers can typically be found in one of several locations:

  • On the face of the putter
  • On the hosel (where the shaft enters the clubhead)
  • On the heel of the putter

According to PING’s official information, “putter serial numbers [are located] on the face, hosel or heel.” These serial numbers can help determine the production date and authenticity of your putter.

Address and Location Stamps

The location stamp is the most critical identifier for determining a PING putter’s age and potential value:

  • Redwood City, California: The earliest and most valuable putters (1967-1969)
  • Scottsdale, AZ 85282: Early Scottsdale era putters with ZIP code (1969-1973)
  • Scottsdale, Arizona: Later Scottsdale putters without ZIP code (1973-1986)
  • Phoenix, Arizona: More recent production with lower collector value

Color Dots and Their Meaning

PING putters often feature colored dots that indicate the lie angle:

  • Green Dot: 2° upright lie angle
  • Orange Dot: 2° flat lie angle
  • Other colors represent different lie angles according to PING’s color-coding system

While the colored dots primarily indicate fitting specifications rather than directly affecting value, original and correct color coding can be important to collectors seeking authentic examples.

PING Putter Condition Assessment

Check applicable items to assess your putter's condition

  • Original grip in good condition
  • No repairs or reshafting
  • Clear, readable manufacturer's stamps
  • No significant face wear or damage
  • Original finish largely intact
  • Shaft is straight without dents
  • No significant nicks or dents on head
  • Has original headcover (if applicable)
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Current Market Values for Vintage PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">The values of vintage PING putters vary significantly based on model, era, material, and condition. The following price ranges reflect current market values based on recent sales data from auction sites, golf forums, and specialty retailers.</div>

Collection of multiple vintage PING putters showing different models and eras

Vintage PING Putter Value Guide

Current market values as of 2023

  </tbody>
</table>

Recent Auction Examples

Notable PING Putter Auction Sales

Recent sales from online marketplaces and auction houses

Category Price Notes
Redwood City PING Putters (Any Model) $1,000 - $3,000+ Extremely rare, highest collector value
Scottsdale PING Anser (with ZIP code) $150 - $500 Higher value for excellent condition
Beryllium Copper PING Putters $200 - $1,000+ Premium for original condition BeCu models
Scottsdale PING Anser (no ZIP code) $50 - $120 Common but still collectible
PING 1-A Original Models $90 - $200 Historical significance adds value
Later PING Models (1980s-1990s) $20 - $65 Common models in average condition
Modern PING Putters (Used) $60 - $135 Based on condition and model 
  </tbody>
</table>
<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Where to Sell Vintage PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">If you&rsquo;ve discovered that you own a valuable vintage PING putter and are considering selling it, several options are available. Each selling platform offers different advantages in terms of potential price, audience reach, and ease of sale.</div>

Vintage PING putter in original condition with patina and wood shaft

Online Marketplaces

  1. eBay: The largest audience of potential buyers, but higher fees and more competition. Great for rare models like Redwood City putters or beryllium copper editions, which benefit from eBay’s global reach.

  2. Specialty Golf Retailers: Sites like 2nd Swing Golf, Next Round Golf, and Morton Golf Sales offer trade-in programs and direct purchase options for vintage PING putters. While you might not get top dollar, these provide convenient and reliable sales channels.

Golf Forums and Collector Communities

  1. GolfWRX Forums: This popular golf forum has an active buy/sell section where knowledgeable collectors frequently look for vintage PING putters. The audience understands fair value, and there’s typically less competition than on eBay.

  2. The Sand Trap and MyGolfSpy Forum: These golf communities have dedicated sections for equipment sales where you can find buyers who appreciate vintage PING putters.

Golf Specialty Auctions

For particularly valuable putters (Redwood City models or rare beryllium copper versions), consider specialty golf auctions. These attract serious collectors willing to pay premium prices for exceptional examples.

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Tips for Collecting Vintage PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">For those interested in starting or expanding a collection of vintage PING putters, these expert tips will help you make informed decisions and potentially find valuable models at reasonable prices.</div>

Research and Education

Before making significant purchases, invest time in learning about PING putter history. Understanding the subtle differences between models, manufacturing eras, and identifying features will help you spot valuable putters that others might overlook.

Key resources include:

  • PING’s official archives and history
  • Golf collector forums and communities
  • Reference books on vintage golf equipment

Condition Considerations

When collecting vintage PING putters, condition significantly impacts value. Look for putters with:

  • Original grips (especially Pingman grips)
  • Clear, legible stamping and serial numbers
  • Minimal face wear and no significant damage
  • Original finish and patina
  • No repairs, reshafting, or modifications

Where to Find Vintage PING Putters

Beyond the obvious online marketplaces, consider these sources for finding vintage PING putters:

  1. Estate Sales and Auctions: Often golf equipment is undervalued at general estate sales
  2. Thrift Stores and Garage Sales: Occasional finds at remarkable prices
  3. Golf Pro Shop Trade-Ins: Some clubs still take older models on trade
  4. Golf Course Lost-and-Found: After the holding period, unclaimed clubs may be sold

Common Questions About Vintage PING Putter Values

Where is the serial number on a PING putter? 
Serial numbers for PING putters can be found in one of several locations: on the face of the putter, on the hosel (where the shaft enters the clubhead), or on the heel of the putter. These serial numbers can help determine the production date and authenticity of your putter.
What are old PING putters made of? 
The earliest PING putters were crafted from manganese bronze, which was Karsten Solheim's material of choice for its feel and quality. This material naturally tarnishes with age, creating a distinctive patina that many collectors appreciate. Later models were made from various materials including stainless steel, beryllium copper (which are highly valued), and modern alloys. The beryllium copper models are particularly sought after for their soft feel and distinctive appearance.
How much is a Scottsdale PING putter worth? 
Scottsdale PING putters vary in value depending on whether they include the ZIP code in their stamp. Early Scottsdale putters with the "Scottsdale, AZ 85282" marking (made between 1969-1973) typically sell for $150-500 depending on model and condition. Later Scottsdale putters without the ZIP code (1973-1986) generally sell for $50-120. Condition, model type, and original components all affect the final value.
What does a green dot mean on a PING putter? 
The colored dots on PING putters indicate the lie angle of the club, which is part of PING's custom fitting system. A green dot specifically indicates that the putter has a lie angle that is 2° upright from standard. Orange dots indicate a 2° flat lie angle. While these dots primarily relate to fitting specifications rather than directly affecting collector value, having the original and correct color coding can be important to collectors seeking authentic examples.
How can I tell how old my PING putter is? 
The best way to determine the age of your PING putter is by examining the address stamp on the club:

    

  • "Redwood City, Cal." indicates 1967-1969 production
    • 

  • "Scottsdale, AZ 85282" indicates 1969-1973 production
    • 

  • "Scottsdale, Arizona" without ZIP code indicates 1973-1986 production
    • 

  • "Phoenix, Arizona" indicates more recent production
    • 



The serial number can also help determine age, though PING does not publicly share their serial number dating system. For definitive identification, you can contact PING’s customer service with your serial number.

Are PING Anser putters valuable? 
Yes, PING Anser putters can be quite valuable, especially older models. The value hierarchy generally follows:

    

  1. Redwood City Anser putters ($1,000-3,000+)
    2. 

  2. Beryllium copper Anser models ($200-1,000+)
    3. 

  3. Early Scottsdale Anser with ZIP code ($150-500)
    4. 

  4. Later Scottsdale Anser without ZIP code ($50-120)
    5. 

  5. Modern Anser reproductions ($20-65)
    6. 



Condition, originality, and provenance can significantly affect these values.

How do I sell my vintage PING putter? 
To sell a vintage PING putter, first accurately identify the model and era to establish its potential value. For maximum value, consider specialized golf marketplaces like the GolfWRX forum, eBay with detailed descriptions and quality photos, or specialty golf retailers like 2nd Swing Golf. For rare models like Redwood City putters or beryllium copper versions, consider auction houses or specialty golf auctions that attract serious collectors willing to pay premium prices.

External Resources for PING Putter Values

<h2 class="section-header__title"> 
<span>Conclusion: Investing in Vintage PING Putters</span>

</h2>

<div class="section-header__body">Vintage PING putters represent both a piece of golf history and potentially valuable collectibles. From the groundbreaking engineering of Karsten Solheim to the revolutionary designs that changed putting forever, these clubs carry significant historical importance in the world of golf.</div>

For collectors, understanding the nuances of manufacturing eras, authentic identification, and condition assessment is essential to building a valuable collection. The most prized examples - early Redwood City models, beryllium copper editions, and early Scottsdale putters with ZIP codes - continue to appreciate in value as they become increasingly scarce.

Whether you’re a serious collector seeking rare PING putters or a casual golfer who has discovered an old putter in the garage, the vintage PING putter market offers something for everyone. By using the identification guides and value information in this article, you’ll be better equipped to determine the potential value of any vintage PING putter you encounter.

Remember that condition, authenticity, and proper identification are key to maximizing value. When in doubt about a particularly valuable model, consider professional appraisal services or contacting PING directly for authentication assistance.

Item Price Date Auction House
PING Anser Redwood City $2,350 February 2023 eBay
PING Anser Scottsdale (with ZIP) $425 January 2023 GolfWRX Forum
PING Beryllium Copper Anser $750 March 2023 Specialized Golf Auction
PING 1-A Original $185 December 2022 eBay
PING Anser 2 (1980s model) $65 April 2023 2nd Swing Golf