Bear polar bow

[olehickory]

I have a friend that has a Bear Polar recurve bow and he would like some info about it

It has a made in Grayling mark and a Canada pat. date of 1953.
The riser contains the following info.  5J187,  63 inches,  30 #
The riser also contains a built in sight. It is marked in both yards and meters. (At least I think the second set of numbers represents meters)

Any information anybody can provide would be greatly appreciated. An approximate value would be helpful as I would like to purchase this bow from my friend.

[mangonboat]

The built in sight window suggests it is 1964 or later. The 5 digit at the front of the serial number sequence followed by the letter J  most likely indicates a 1965 Polar, but there is an outside chance it could be a 1964 that coincidentally started with  5J. 63" model in 1965  would be unusual..is that the measured tip to tip length or marked on the bow?

[olehickory]

the 63 is marked on the bow riser

[Captain*Kirk]

The Polars typically don't command a high price compared to other Bear bows, being considered "target bows", and most being of lower draw weights. The white limb faces also make them a poor choice as a hunting bow. As for value, I would suggest doing a search on the big auction site, then search for "find similar items" and compare pricing to average out. I think you might be pleasantly surprised. I have had several on my watch list over the years that ended up selling in the $100.00 range but I wasn't buying at those particular times.
Good luck in your endeavor; hope you get it.

[olehickory]

thank you for your information.  I was hoping for a price in the range you mentioned.

[Drywood]

 I don't have an answer but clues. I see a 1961 Polar with 16J64  in 64" and 25J97 in 66".  Also 5 Polars that I  think were early 1962  6J79,29J59,25J94,29J81 and 14J48. All yellow glass zebrawood  66". The 63" riser marking is unknown to me. I hope this helps,I sold several $75 to $150.

[olehickory]

Thank you. All info even clues are appreciated.  Your price fits with other sources I have checked.