i didn t think so either.when i got it the hairs had no splay to them ,straight up and down. now its fanning out a bit. a couple of hairs are broken on the outside but it had sat on that shelf forgotten for decades.touch of staining too. but $5.00 is good i can always re knot it. feels good to use a vintage brush ,adds to the whole experience.funny how the vintage brushes have taller knots.love the red and white ,handles very classic. sorry for babbling on .gary