What’s unusual about this pipe, beside the long shank (4.5” for just the shank) is that no grade is given for this pipe. I don’t know when the proliferation of names and grades began, but the button of this stem looks to me like it might well be a 1950s piece. That button is quite roundish with a small slit. The grain is Bird’s Eye and cross grain and I don’t see any fills. So, what we have is “GBD” in an oval and under that “London Made” on the top of the shank, and on the bottom is solely the shape # of 3888. The stem, rather clearly an original, has the GBD bezel, or rondele, or whatever you call that metal logo. The condition is good. The stem is mark-free. In the photos you can see the burn spot on the beveled rim, but if there’s any wear, it’s minimal. My guess (and although it sounds self-serving…and of course, it is…but you rarely see me making such statements) is that this old briar will provide an exceptional smoke. I’m already a fan of the GBD smoke quality.
Anyhow, are we seeing many, if any, long shanked pipes today?
7.5” long, bowl 1.85” tall. Weight: 1 3/8 oz., 39 grams.