Posted By:
Alan ElefsonMarty-
I am not an expert on these and I am sure others will post with more information, but it certainly matches the appearence of other labelled 19th century baseballs I have seen in reputable auction houses. I believe there is an excellent book about dating vintage baseballs but I cannot recall either the author or the title right now.
One other piece of information is related to the circumference of the baseball. If it is smaller than a standard baseball (and its patina and feel are correct), it usually dates to before the turn of the century. You can also search old posts on this board by the key word baseballs. You will have to wade through some autograph posts but there have been a few threads about 19th century baseballs.
Alan Elefson
aelefson@hotmail.com