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I have a new Garcia Mitchell 408 with the serial number 9216 stamped on the reel foot. I am trying to find out the age (is it a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd version) and what it might be worth. I saw similar 408s on Ebay for over 100 dollars.
[img width=640 height=480]http://i49.tinypic.com/b5pq1x.jpg[/img]
[img width=640 height=480]http://i46.tinypic.com/2n0ki91.jpg[/img]
It is a second version. I knew it was a definitely a first or second version immediately from the carbide line guide post (stationary not a roller) and the red anodized housing plate screw. The main tell between the first and second is the chrome dust cover that is behind the handle, over the housing stem. As far as an exact or more specific date based on the serial number, I can't help you out other than to say it is from the mid 60s to early 70s.
I had one just like it forty years ago. It was my very first UL reel and it was a great little reel that I caught plenty of big fish on 4# test line. My favorite thing I liked about the reel was the handle knob, to this day when I try out a new UL reel I compare the handle knob to this reel. The way the thumb and index finger lay on it is ergonomic perfection to me.
Your reel looks to be in very excellent condition and I hope you get as much joy from it as I did mine. I'm glad you posted pictures of it, since I enjoyed reminiscing about mine. Thanks and I hope my answer satisfied your curiosity about the reel
Thanks for the info DRH it has never been on a rod or had line on it so I think I will just put it up for now.