I collect other things besides vintage motor scooters. Old coins for example. But about a year ago, I stated a new collection. I now have 11 De-Liars. These neat little gadgets consist of a scale for weighing fish and a tape measure for measuring them. People have been giving them to fishermen as gag gifts for 50 years. They are supposed to eleminate lying, which is a traditional fisherman's activity. Most De-Liars just end up in the bottom of the tackle box or in somebody's sock drawer. I have my collection proudly displayed on a pegboard in my shop. I have about 8 variations.

De-Liars were first sold by Langley, a fishing tackle company, in the early 1950's. Langley sold out to Zebco, another fishing tackle company. I have not been able to determine when the sale (merger?) took place, but at that time the body of the De-Liar was changed from pot metal to plastic. Zebco brand De-Liars are not yet popular with collectors, but I have seen Langleys priced at more than ten dollars. The average price of a Langley is more like three bucks, but really nice ones with little wear or damage generally go for six or seven. There are always a few for sale on eBay.

Variations include early models not marked "Not legal for trade." Other early models are marked "Pat. Pend," instead of "Patented." There are only two models, the 208, and the somewhat larger 228. Color is another variation. Most common is the 228 in green with silver lettering. they also came in black. The aluminum plate on the front can be silver lettering on black, silver on green, or black on silver. Some Zebco models show a jumping bass instead of the usual trout hanging in a vertical position.

Some De-Liars are still in the original cardboard box which may be blue, red, or green. I have one that came in a leather pouch.

When collectors start paying hundreds of dollars for these little jewels, I'm gonna be rich.
Howard