5Pattern history and manufacturer context
Design lineage
The package names the pattern “Mustad-Limerick Hooks” P. The checked evidence does not establish the pattern’s introduction date, origin, or relationship to other manufacturers’ Limerick patterns.
Dating
Oslo designation (Line 3) indicates post-1925 manufacture — Christiania renamed to Oslo January 1, 1925 V. Absence of barcode: strong pre-1974 indicator P. Letterpress printing and paper stock consistent with mid-20th-century production. 'Made in Norway' notation standard on vintage export labels. 'T. up tap. eye' terminology and eight-line label format align with classic Mustad era before Signature Series transition (c. 2001–2009). Combined evidence points to 1950s–1960s window; most consistent with post-WWII Norwegian manufacturing expansion.
7Collecting and buying
6 / 10CollectabilityRarity: Uncommon
The Mustad 3671 is a genuinely scarce vintage wet fly and salmon hook with strong appeal to traditional fly tiers and Mustad historians. Tapered turned-up eye construction is a premium feature now rarely produced. Original packaging adds significant value; intact vintage boxes are highly sought.
Positive Factors: Tapered eye construction is a specialist premium feature no longer common in modern production. Limerick bend has deep cultural significance in Atlantic salmon fly tradition. Vintage Norwegian manufacture (post-1925 but pre-1975) is historically important — Norwegian steel tempering is prized by collectors. Original packaging with intact label dramatically increases value. Size No. 2 in this pattern is moderate and widely usable. ‘Made in Norway’ designation is collectible across multiple Mustad models. Bronzed finish is warm and aesthetically appealing.
Limiting Factors: The 3671 is not as iconic as models like the 3906 (Sproat) or 36890 (salmon irons), so it commands less premium than signature patterns. Limerick bend is somewhat niche compared to round bends. Moderate size (No. 2) limits appeal compared to larger salmon sizes (1/0–4/0 range) which draw higher collector interest. Pattern is still in modern production under Signature Series, reducing scarcity perception. Condition of specimen is unremarkable — no notable patina or historical use marks to increase narrative value.
Market value
Insufficient recorded sales data to estimate a reliable value.
0 sold observations recorded; 2 are needed, with the basis and date of the range, before a value is shown. Asking prices are shown as asking prices only.
Original packaging condition is primary value driver — a box in mint condition with all 100 hooks intact commands $24–28. Loose hooks without packaging typically $12–16 depending on finish condition. Tapered eye variant commands 10–15% premium over standard ball-eye equivalent. Vintage Norwegian manufacture adds 5–8% to value versus later Signature Series equivalents. eBay specialist dealers and fly-tying forums most active market; periodic sales at tackle fairs also observed.
Where to find
eBay vintage tackle listings (frequent), specialist fly-fishing forums (Singlebarbed, Classic Fly Tyers), estate sales, vintage tackle dealers in UK and Scandinavia, occasional tackle fairs.
