Need Help with this Ball

[kdixon]

I measured it at 8 and a half inches around with a shoe string.

[drc]

That is an interesting design. I'm not expert, but I'd guess 1880s or maybe even earlier. It's unusual stitching patter no doubt adds to its value as rare styles are worth more.

[John V]

I'm curious. I know nothing about antique baseballs. How hard is it compared to a modern ball?

[kdixon]

It's pretty hard but not as hard as a new one in my opinion.

Wow! A true, 3-seam fastball!

[Cardboard Junkie]

Aloha! I don't know anything about baseballs but could you weigh it? Very interesting 8 1/2 " around. Looks in great shape for 1880 but I wouldn't be surprised if it was. Nice find. Now tell me you bought it for .50cents at a garage sale. Aloha, Dave.

[kdixon]

Here is another picture of the ball. David the ball weighs about 1/4 of a pound. I didnt get it a a garage sale. Bought it from an older antique dealer who had it in his house, not in a store. I had asked him if he had any old baseball items and he said no, then he remembered he had the ball. Thanks for all the great information in the posts and in private messages.