Old game used baseball from 1920
 

I recently won an old game used baseball an an auction. Yankees vs Cleveland June 12th, 1920 (Babe Ruth 0-4, Jack Quinn pitched, Ray Chapman had 2 hits and would be dead soon after). It is identified as such, however some of the writing has began to chip/fade away. Is there REALLLLY any harm in me tracing over the wording so that it's easier to read? I know the answer that the purists will give me. However, what is the real harm? I'm not tracing over an autograph; just some unknown persons handwriting that identifies the game info. Any input will be appreciated as always!

Brendan

I would not trace over the ball at all. I would take photos of the whole ball and of course, the writing on it and then I would print out what it says on printer paper or write it out and store it with the ball. I just do not believe in writing over anything already written on a ball. The pics are your verification of your copying the writing.

I wouldn't do it.

How about getting a small plaque engraved with what is written on the ball, then you can attach it to a nice display case, I bet it would make for a great looking piece.

By tracking it, you are altering the ball from its original state. I wouldn't but its your ball and you can do what ever you like with it.

I wouldn't do it.

Thanks for the input. I guess I'll leave it as be. Thanks again.

Is the writing contemporary with the events described on the ball, or was it written, say, in the 70's?

If it originates from the 20's, then I would most certainly leave it as is, because it represents a kind of snapshot of the era. The writing adds to the overall story of this artifact and makes you wonder about the person who wrote the info on the ball as well as the game it was from.

It was definitely written in the period (1920). Its a pretty clean ball, however much of the writing has faded. All I can read is 6-12-20, Cleveland vs. New York game ball. There is some other writing that has since become illegible. I was simply thinking of making the writing a little more darker/bolder. But I guess I'll leave it alone (for now haha).

If you're thinking of reselling at some point re-touching the inscription will really hurt the ball.

Some of the illegible writing will jump out at you with a black light. Consider using that and taking a picture of it illuminated instead of writing on the ball.

Previous suggestion about Black-light is spot on. I have grown into the habit of looking at all my new purchases of Cards photo's Auto's under a Black-light most basic tools to see changes in surface. Tape glue etc etc. all show up. It was a Great suggestion..
J