Circa 1900 catcher's mask

[Tim Kindler]

I need some information on this catcher's mask. It looks almost exactly like the mask attributed to Deacon White in the last REA auction, except in much lesser condition and it appears to have an extra area of "cage" at the chin area. It is rusted, spray painted black at one time, but it is origional, has vintage padding and stuffing, and has the buckles for the straps which have rotted off.

My questions to those experts out there are:
How old exactly is it?

How rare is it?

How much (approx.) does anyone think it is worth?

Any help or information would be helpful.

Thanks,
Tim Kindler

[jessjen2]

Tim, you have a non welded birdcage style mask with a throat protector. From looking at various catalogs, they made these style mask from before the turn of the century all the way up to the early 1920's. It is somewhat rare due to the throat protector. I have a couple of these in my collection and as far as value, it is really difficult to say. Online dealers want an arm and a leg for these but I have picked up mine in the $200 to $300 price range. They are really neat to have.

[perezfan]

I would have responded exactly as Joel did... I think yours is from the 1890s or very early 1900s. The throat protector makes it more desirable than most typical examples.

In terms of value, a lot depends on condition, and whether the pads are all in tact. The missing head-strap is a slight detractor but is not too big a deal (almost expected with a piece like this...)

I would say yours is worth $250 - $275 with no manufacturer's markings (dealer price $400 - $500). Deacon White's Mask went for lots more, because of the history and provenance.

Nice Mask!