Seller disclosed the concerns, and subsequently pulled the auction. He isn't a "card guy" but admittedly should have performed due diligence with this one before posting it (as it is dreadful...)

Bottom line is that he wasn't likely trying to deceive, or "pull a fast one". He employed Kevin Keating to authenticate the autographs he's selling. If the Babe Ruth Ball is still a major concern, then the person who should comment here is Keating (who provided the LOA).

So to summarize, the seller received this ball 4+ years ago from the original owner and sent it to Keating for authentication. The LOA is authentic although there is nothing concretely linking ball and LOA. I assume Kevin has some sort of record of this, and all that is left is the issue of whether his opinion is correct?

I must say this is a very interesting thread, and would love to see Kevin come on and address this version of events. Scott's initial assertion of mismatched LOA/ball should easily be cleared up. Which just leaves the debate on authenticity.

Bottom line is that he doesn't seem to know cards or autographs, yet he is selling them. Regarding Keating, yeah - that would be interesting.

Completely agree :D

Correct, I do not collect Pre-war cards. Have always had an interest, just never pursued it.