Sam Crawford store model bat questions

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Posted By: Alan Elefson

Hi-
I recently acquired the Sam Crawford Spalding autograph bat (34-35 inches long) depicted below and I had a few questions regarding it and other vintage bats that I was hoping the forum might be able to help me with:
1. Does the heavy use of electrical tape typically indicate a crack in that area? I ask about this because I googled the bat before postying here and I saw one in better shpae then this one sell at Heritage in Jan 2007. That one has a crack that is mentioned in the description as being repaired with nails and covered with electric tape.
2. Compared with other similar vintage bats, how does the condition match up (e.g. is it average, below average, or above)? Please note that part of the knob is missing.
3. Is it wise to remove the electrical tape? Or at least small amounts to detect any cracks prior to selling it?
4. The one I saw in Heritage was listed as pre 1920. I think Crawford last played in 1917 (although store model bats could have been issued after his playing days). Can anyone provide a more precise date approximation?
5. Any additional information would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks in advance,
Alan Elefson
aelefson@hotmail.com