Age of Penn 6/0 & 9/0 reels

[Gunrunner]

Hi guys I need some help I thought I had this
All figured out until I went to the local tackle
Store now I'm not so sure it all started the
Other day when I went and had line put on one
Of my 9/0 the shop keeper said we don't see
Very many of the big old reels any more that's
When the debate of the age of these reels started
So I was hoping you guys being the pros could
Help me out with the age of these reels thanx

[Tightlines667]

They are all post-1955 (parts numbers, single-piece spools, 7 O'Clock gear case).

I think the oldest is on the far right (red-handled), then far left (white-handled), then middle (6/0.. bearings).  The bushing models are the oldest, then the 6/0.   I believe, the 9/0 has been the most produced older model senator, the 4/0 was the most common prewar senator, and the 6/0 may be the most produced senator of all time, so these are not particularly rare.

I don't have access to all of the newer catalogs, and Mike's book covering the second half of Penn production history has not been completed yet, so I can't tell you much more then 9/0s are post-1955 and likely from the early to mid 60s.  The 6/0 could be from tue 60s through the 80s.

The high speed and non post models were introduced, and became popular in the 1960s, but low speed post models (such as yours) were produced into the 80s.

The 9/0s have open drags which were also popular in the 1960s, but I am not sure on the later production dates.   The power handle may tell you sonething, but basically these handles can't narrow it down much (except the white may have been more popular during a few specific years.

Sorry I don't have more for you.

John

[Gunrunner]

Any idea as to what years they were made
Myself I thought the one 6/0&9/0 with out numbers
The bushings ones were from the 40s the other 9/0
With the berings was from the 70s what do you think

[Tightlines667]

If the 9/0s are nonnumbered, then they coupd be from the late 40s-1950, but w/ incorrect handles and spools.  The 6/0 is likely from tye late 60s/early to mid 70s.

Just a wild guess.

[Gunrunner]

One 9/0 has no numbers bushings and a 3 piece reel

One 9/0 has numbers ball bearings and a 1 piece reel

One 6/0 has no numbers bushings and a 3 piece reel

My best guess is the 9/0 & 6/0 without numbers
And from the penn logo location early 50s
The 9/0 with numbers and bearings along
With the penn logo location early 70s that's
My best guess let me know what you guys think