Best I can remember is $6 and I was Gripping back then.
But then again, Models could be found in any toy section in most every store.
I had to mow lawns, wash cars, even tried a paper route for a month or two.
then figured working 7 days a week rain or shine wasn't quite my thing.
Use to pick strawberrys too.
The only good thing about my good Ole days was kits were easier to find.
I just think that at todays $24 for a kit is waaaay too much.
I have cut down my spending.
Not really, spend the same amount, just get fewer kits.
Since then, I have gone to 2 of my LHS for almost 25yrs.
But I have yet to get my hands on a Rommels Rod