Auction Item Details
Lot 8
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Lot Number: 8
Description: Very early baseball bat with rattan wrapped handle c.1860s-80s. Hand turned wooden baseball bat representing a top of the line early model complete with an inset rattan wrapped handle. It currently measures (34") long and it appears that the barrel end has been trimmed down. Use is evident throughout including contact marks and scuffing, grain swelling, and there are a few small nicks/chips. Nearly identical to another example which we offered in May of 2024. When the other bat was first presented to us the importance was not evident however extensive research was provided by a member of SABR's 19th Century Baseball Research Committee which included, among other points, numerous photographs showing early players with bats that have a similar style handle wrap (with the rattan or leather set into the surface rather than sitting on the surface). It was further noted that there are around half a dozen examples which are known and they are similarly unmarked. An interesting style and one of the earliest baseball specific bats we have handled: VGEstimated Price Range: ($2,000-$4,000)
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