The ORVIS CFO IV made in England is indeed a rare and highly sought-after fly fishing reel, especially among collectors and traditionalists. Here’s what makes it special:

Key Features & Background:
1. Heritage & Craftsmanship
– The CFO (C.F. Orvis) series was originally designed in collaboration with Stan Bogdan, a legendary reel maker, in the 1970s.
– The CFO IV is one of the larger models in the series, suitable for trout and light saltwater fishing.
– The “Made in England” versions were produced by J.W. Young & Sons, a renowned British reel manufacturer known for precision engineering.

2. Design & Performance
– Classic click-and-pawl drag system (simple, reliable, and nostalgic).
– Lightweight aluminum construction with a hard-anodized finish (durable but elegant).

– Low-profile, narrow-spool design (balances well on bamboo or vintage graphite rods).
– RHW (Right-Hand Wind) only in most early models.

3. Rarity & Collectibility
– The CFO IV (Made in England) is harder to find than later US-made or Asian-produced versions.
– Earlier models (pre-1990s) with the “ORVIS ENGLAND” engraving are most desirable.
– Some collectors seek the “disc drag” version (CFO IV Disc), but the click-pawl is more classic.

Market Value (Estimated, 2024)
– Mint/NOS (New Old Stock): $400–$700+ (depending on condition & packaging).
– Used (Good-Excellent): $250–$450 (scratches or wear lower value).
– Rare variants (e.g., special finishes, limited runs): Can exceed $1,000.

Why It’s Coveted?
– Nostalgia: Represents the golden era of fly fishing reels.
– Quality: Superior to many modern mass-produced reels.
– Brand Legacy: ORVIS + J.W. Young collaboration is iconic.

Where to Find One?
– eBay (check sold listings for pricing trends).
– Classic fly fishing forums (e.g., Fiberglass Flyrodders, Classic Fly Rod Forum).
– Vintage tackle dealers (like Lang’s, The Classic Fly Fisherman).

Things to Watch For:
– Fakes/Replicas: Later Asian-made CFOs may be misrepresented.
– Condition: Check for spindle wear, cracked frames, or replaced parts.
– Originality: Original box/papers increase value.

If you own one, it’s a keeper! If you’re buying, verify authenticity carefully. Would you like help appraising a specific reel?