Honus Wagner Bat

[nesportspromotions]

Does anyone know what this is?

Is it a gamer? Is it just a decal bat? Thanks!

[ghostkid]

How long is the bat and how much does it weigh?

Without provenance or picture ID, I don't think one can ever say it's a gamer...BUT IT'S STILL A GREAT BAT!!! Based on the MADE BY center label, it looks like this bat is from the 1897-1911 era. Honus Wagner was the first player to sign an endorsement contract with Hillerich/Bradsby in 1905, so I feel reasonably sure the bat dates from 1905-1911.

Please keep me in mind if you ever decide to sell this bat.

Kevin Kasper
kevinkasper@netzero.com

[nesportspromotions]

Thanks for your help!

Anyone else?

[MSpecht]

I agree with Kevin's analysis.. Decal bats appeared after the first endorsement signing on 9/1/1905 (Honus Wagner) during the 1897-1911 label period, so this bat would reasonably date between 1905-1911. Just to add a little to the post, Wagner's earliest records (1911-1912). document orders of bats weighing between 44 ounces and 50 ounces. No additional information is available from that period, Additionally, the Honus Wagner display bat from the Louisville Slugger museum is referenced as 34 1/2 inches and 38 ounces.

Good Luck in future collecting.

Mike Jackitout7@aol.com

[ghostkid]

nesportspromotions,

Have you determined the length and weight of the bat yet?

Kevin

[jboosted92]

looks like a mini-bat to me

[nesportspromotions]

Actually I'm not sure how one measures a bat. (Blushing while typing.)

If it is from the VERY top of the Barrel to the VERY bottom of the knob it measures 33 inches EXACTLY.

Thanks guys!

[nesportspromotions]

[ghostkid]

It sounds like you measured the bat correctly. This is considered a full-sized decal bat, but the Wagner gamer bats sold in the past year or two have been a bit longer (34.25 - 34.5 inches). Still, as I said before, this is a great bat that most true collectors would covet (a.k.a. pay $$$). Fair market value is probably a solid 4-figure price.

Kevin
kevinkasper@netzero.com

[nesportspromotions]

Thanks for all the info Kevin!

FYI: The bat will most likely end up in auction this summer. When I decide where I'll email you a link.

I'm in Boston and there is a local auction house that I'm leaning towards b/c I really don't want to deal with the NY/NJ guys.

All the best!