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Offered here is an original Dunlop Maxply Fort in the classic 1950s–60s livery: gold scroll-banner "Maxply Dunlop" decal, red "Dunlop Fort" throat lettering, white-painted shoulders with red-and-black trim bands, and the script "Dunlop" decal at the crown.
The shaft carries the period "FRAME ONLY BY DUNLOP · ENGLAND" stamp — these frames were supplied unstrung from Dunlop's English factory and strung to order by the pro shop — along with the goldLIGHTweight designation and4 1/2grip size.
The Maxply Fort was Dunlop's flagship from the early 1930s until 1983 and the choice of generations of champions. Rod Laver won both of his calendar-year Grand Slams (1962 and 1969) with a Maxply, Virginia Wade played hers at Wimbledon, and John McEnroe took the 1981 Wimbledon and US Open titles with its direct descendant. Its multi-laminate construction — nine different woods pressed into one frame — is what gave the racket its name: "maximum plies."
Details:
- Model: Dunlop Maxply Fort, made in England
- Era: circa late 1950s–1960s (second-generation graphics)
- Weight class: Light (approx. 12.5–13 oz strung)
- Grip: 4 1/2, original spiral leather wrap
- Standard 27" length, laminated multi-wood frame
- Strung (period strings)
Condition:Good honest vintage condition. All decals present and legible, including the gold Maxply banner. The white shoulders show play marks and scuffs consistent with age and use; the leather grip has a deep, even patina with wear at the butt end, and the top of the wrap is secured with a band of tape. Strings are intact with age toning. No cracks or breaks to the hoop or shoulders. Sold as a collectible/display piece — vintage wood rackets this age are not intended for modern play. Please review all photos, as they form part of the description.
A beautiful piece of tennis history — ideal for display in a club, office, or den, or as a gift for any tennis player or collector.
Free shipping. Ships carefully packed.
