1939 Play Ball Samples info?

[scottzoe]

Hi guys,
I'm looking for some info on the 1939 Play Ball samples. Specifically, I would like to know if the Sample stamp on the back is always red, or was black used as well? Any info would be appreciated,
Thank you,
Scott

[DaveW]

There have been a few threads about these cards in the past, so you could use the search function. But basically, the Sample stamp is only found on cards #1 through #115. I've never seen a black one - only red was used as far as I know.
- Dave

[scottzoe]

Dave,
Thanks for the reply. I have read quite a bit about the 1939 Play Ball samples, but not much is mentioned on the color ink for the stamps. When I Google for images, all I find are the red stamp backs. I only have one myself to compare with, which is of course red.
The question arises as I have been looking at a Bobby Doerr sample on eBay, but the black sample stamp has me wondering. The same seller also has a Tommy Heinrich sample with a black stamp as well.

Thanks,
Scott

[DaveW]

I saw those cards on EBay. I'd be willing to bet that the stamp is really red but the scan is in B+W for some reason since it looks lighter than the black printing. I would ask the seller what color it really is. Good luck.

[Paul S]

Until recently I had a few dozen of them, and I had them for many years. All samples were red. Never seen a black. Also, it wouldn't make sense to put a black sample over the black player info.

[scottzoe]

I'm thinking Dave is right about the color. Since it's a black and white card, I wasn't even thinking of the scans being black and white instead of color. Anyway I was outbid and didn't win it, but I do appreciate all the insight and info.
Thanks to all,
Scott

[Leon]

I have seen a few fake/fraudulent stamps that were done in black, on earlier series (E94 and Old Put)......I would be leery of black stamps.

[DaveW]

I emailed the seller about this and he was kind enough to reply, confirming that the stamp was in red ink and the scan was in B&W by mistake (thanks Tim!). So no need to rewrite the book on these or to call in the fraud patrol. All is still well in this corner of the collecting universe.