In this feature, we hear from Jon Felz, an expert appraiser from RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, who provides valuable insights on evaluating prized possessions. Have something you're curious about having appraised? Reach out to Jon for a chance to have your items featured in a future "Ask the Appraiser" column.
Note to Appraiser:
Greetings, Jon,
The pictured Babe Ruth-signed baseball was given to my father by Babe Ruth himself. I've included a photo of Ruth actually signing the ball. This took place at a golf outing in Westchester County in 1928. My grandfather knew Babe Ruth through some business dealings and frequently played golf with him.
My question is about its value. I'm in the process of preparing a trust for my children, and according to my attorney, I need to know the value of certain items in my estate, this being one of them. I’m unsure of its value and would appreciate your help. If I’ve sent too many photographs, I apologize. Thank you for your time.
Appraisal Response:
What a great item to have! Congratulations on owning such a desirable piece of baseball history. George Herman "Babe" Ruth (1895-1948) was one of the most iconic Major League Baseball players, with a career spanning 22 seasons, from 1914 to 1935. Known as "The Sultan of Swat" and "The Great Bambino," Ruth started his career as a left-handed pitcher with the Boston Red Sox before becoming a star outfielder for the New York Yankees. He was one of the first players elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame and is widely considered one of the greatest baseball players of all time. His influence on the game is still felt today.
Your baseball appears to be consistent with its alleged age. It’s known as a "Rabbit Ball" due to the strong wool used in its interior. If you examine the seam, you’ll notice it feels smooth, and the threads are countersunk, flush with the leather. The autograph appears to be written with carbon-based fountain pen ink, which is appropriate for that time period.
Now, some good news and some bad news about this baseball. The good news is that, in my professional opinion, this is an authentic Babe Ruth-signed baseball from the 1920s. One additional positive note is that the autograph is located in the "sweet spot," rather than the side panel—exactly where collectors prefer it.
Now, the unfortunate news: the condition of the autograph. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest grade, I would rate this signature a 1, indicating poor condition. Unfortunately, the signature has faded over time due to improper storage. As a result, the current value of this baseball is approximately $1,500. If the autograph had remained in better condition—stronger and bolder—the value would likely have risen significantly. Recent auction records show Babe Ruth-signed baseballs with prominently displayed autographs selling for five figures.
Please do not handle the ball without wearing gloves, as you want to avoid further damage to the visible autograph. Thank you for sharing this great piece of baseball memorabilia with us. It is undoubtedly a wonderful family heirloom, especially with the provenance associated with it.
Jon Felz - Senior Appraiser
RZM Fine Arts & Antiques, Inc.
Address: 132 Dexter Avenue, Pearl River, NY
Phone: 845-735-1313