Vintage auto'd baseball experts, help please!

[mighty bombjack]

I'm intrigued by this ball in the REA auction (which is ridiculously loaded, by the way). Is it common for the autos on a ball this old to be so bold? Is this due to fountain pen ink, the light shellack, or what? It just looks odd to me, but I don't collect baseballs generally so any thoughts or opinions are welcomed.

http://bid.robertedwardauctions.com/...x?itemid=22432

[perezfan]

It's just that great India Ink that was often used back in the day. It displays magnificently, and holds up remarkably well. Great Ball

[mighty bombjack]

Thanks perezfan

Another question (for anyone): is it true that the clubhouse sig of Ruth on this ball is a "classic example"? Anyone know of any exemplars?

[Wymers Auction]

Bombjack at least they are admitting that it was not signed by Ruth.

[mighty bombjack]

Originally Posted by Wymers Auction

Bombjack at least they are admitting that it was not signed by Ruth.

True, but I fear that they are blowing smoke when they call it a classic example. There is a big difference between a period clubhouse sig and a more modern forgery, and I wish I knew how they have deemed it the former.

Everything about the ball seems legit, I'm just splitting hairs.

[Wymers Auction]

I see what you are saying Bombjack.