The Blue Book Explains.....
Ever since 1980, Richard Black has pretty much signed all of his cues on the forearm. When Richard knew he was custom-making the cue for an individual, as opposed to building a cue for his inventory to be sold as is, Richard would sign the cue and include the actual date that the cue was finished on the forearm.
When Richard knew or sensed the cue was being ordered/purchased for resale, he would only sign his name and not include the date. Richard's early cues (he has been ,making cues since the mid 70's), weren't even signed. RB cues produced before 1980 were not signed anywhere on the cue.
In early '96, Richard started to date and add a serial number to identify all of Richard Black's one of a kind cues and cues costing over $2500 (back in 1996 that was a ton of money and still is for many folks). A four digit number appears on the joint screw, the butt screw and also under the wrap of all of these cues. The first two digits represent the year of completion and the last two digits are the number of the cue.
The most knowledgeable cue collector/dealer that I can think of anywhere is Cornerstone Cues and Bill carries the largest collection of rare, simply stunning Richard Black cues. He probably knows more about RB cues than anyone else on the Forum bar none. If we were talking Scruggs cues, I'd refer you to Nick Sedula who's the Czar when it comes to Tim Scruggs cues.
But if you have need to discuss something, anything about your RB cue, then Bill G. is the very best person to consult with on any aspect or question about your cue.
Matt B.
