Best Way to Sell Single Signed Ruth?

[Bpm0014]

Can't hurt to get an LOA for that but certainly not needed. 100% authentic without question. But I can understand how some uneducated people would like an LOA for peace of mind. It's a $6000-$12000 baseball depending on the auction house.

[Sophiedog]

I think having the JSA letter is good enough. No need to spend more money. Whoever buys it will likely know its real and the one COA should give the buyer reasurance he's not buying a stamped or "made up" ball. It's a nice ball too and the box adds some value as well.

[mordecaibrown]

That box is not the original box for that ball though. Ball is an American League Reach baseball and box is for National League Spalding ball.

[Leon]

Originally Posted by mordecaibrown

That box is not the original box for that ball though. Ball is an American League Reach baseball and box is for National League Spalding ball.

Thanks.
I don't know my balls that well . Never thought I would say that. Anyway, my understanding is the ball was always in the box. If it isn't original to it, it is ok and is what it is. I don't think the owner wants to make any more or less of what it really is. Which looks to be a pretty nice ball.

[mordecaibrown]

I completely agree - both are nice items. Just something I noticed as an FYI.

Originally Posted by Leon

Thanks.
I don't know my balls that well . Never thought I would say that. Anyway, my understanding is the ball was always in the box. If it isn't original to it, it is ok and is what it is. I don't think the owner wants to make any more or less of what it really is. Which looks to be a pretty nice ball.

[CW]

If I were in your position, Leon, I would give them the phone numbers to Heritage, REA, and LOTG and recommend they call all 3 to discuss the terms and expectations for the ball. I would suggest they request the ball be placed in a "premier" auction for Heritage, or one of the main spring auctions if they get a better vibe from REA or LOTG.

Since you know the AH negotiating possibilites well, Leon, I would also give the seller tips on what they should request of the AH regarding seller's commission, catalog placement, cash advances if needed, etc.

Finally, while it's a beautiful Ruth ball, I would also point out to the seller that it might not realize a super high ending amount due to the fact that part of the small "b" and the "e" in Babe are rubbed off or faded.

[Bonk!]

Hi - seller here. I'd like to first start out by thanking Leon for his time and advice. I know as much about this stuff as my tractor, and Leon has been way more than generous.

I noticed the box thing as well, and when I asked my dad (whose memory is fading) he just said "that's what it has always been in." I'm definitely not trying to deceive anyone.

I also understand that this ball isn't in pristine condition, and the ultimate selling price will reflect that.

Leon did point me in the direction of several auction sites and provided great insight regarding the seller's premium (out!) and the buyer's premium (try to negotiate a piece), catalogue page size and location, etc.

Any other advice is certainly welcome - again, I don't know much about this stuff and I do need to maximize what I get for my dad.

Thanks again - Doug