Prewar Baseball

[Runscott]

Mark, isn't this also construction found on home-made early 20th century balls? It looks pretty simplistic. If not, how were simplistic, small, crudely-constructed home-made balls made after the 19th century ended?

[Runscott]

Mark - not questioning you, just looking for more detail. I have owned legitimate items of all types from the late 1800's, but never been able to date my balls as definitively as some do here. Also, the stuff I posted previously about 19th vs early 20th century balls, came from information I got here in this forum a couple of years ago - it seemed to be the consensus opinion at the time.

[perezfan]

I would post links if I had more time. Just check REA, Lelands, Legendary, Heritage, Hunts, etc. Their archives will show dozens of Lemon Peel examples that have sold over the past decade.

Most of the ebay examples purported to be old will have stitching that is newly applied, or is done in a more modern style. Or the coloring will be off, or the stitching will be too fine and/or will "sit atop" the leather with little signs of proper wear or settling in.

The stitching on this example looks correct in every way and is the thicker, more coarse style. Plus, you can see how it has settled in/embedded into the leather with the proper "puckering" at the seams and elongation of the holes.

Just my opinion after observing/buying/selling these items for 20+ years. I know that almost anything can be faked. Also know that skepticism tends to prevale in this forum. But in this case, I see none of the typical or tell-tale signs that would indicate this piece is bogus. If you contact any of the leading auctions to consign this piece (with the photos provided), I bet there isn't a one that would reject it.

[Runscott]

Nevermind - this has gotten repetitive.

[1880nonsports]

experience helps. It's a leap of faith to different degrees as these were often crude and homemade examples. Type of leather, stitching, weight, diameter, and construction are all used in conjunction with an experienced eye. The ball looks OK from a scan - not pretty - but I see no glaring signs that's it's a marriage or a fake. As to whether it could be a handmade 20th century ball - the lemon construction suggests no but without it in hand it's measured speculation. As for value I'd suggest a lower estimate without more substantive information and study - it's not that "pretty". Have attached a pic of a few of my types. Still looking for a nice "H" style ball in larger size than the one I have.

no guarantees whether written or implied

[Scott Garner]

Originally Posted by 1880nonsports

experience helps. It's a leap of faith to different degrees as these were often crude and homemade examples. Type of leather, stitching, weight, diameter, and construction are all used in conjunction with an experienced eye. The ball looks OK from a scan - not pretty - but I see no glaring signs that's it's a marriage or a fake. As to whether it could be a handmade 20th century ball - the lemon construction suggests no but without it in hand it's measured speculation. As for value I'd suggest a lower estimate without more substantive information and study - it's not that "pretty". Have attached a pic of a few of my types. Still looking for a nice "H" style ball in larger size than the one I have.

no guarantees whether written or implied

Jeesus!! That's one gorgeous vintage ball display!
Congrats on your collection....

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by 1880nonsports

It's a leap of faith to different degrees

To me, collecting home-made baseballs has that same "leap of faith" element that you have with a lot of autographed items. I have a hard time taking that leap when there are other things to collect that don't require it, but I completely understand, and I know that Mark is your man when it comes to this sort of item. I also like the idea of asking Mears to look at it, although I wonder if a letter from a well-respected forum member might be just as good, or maybe even better.

I recently received a photograph from Legendary for which I later located a letter of opinion from David (Cycleback). I already knew it was real, but as a collector on this forum, such a letter would be more important to me than a PSA/DNA slab.

[murphusa]

Originally Posted by Runscott

never been able to date my balls as definitively as some do here..

check you birth certificate