Re: Bats that don't match factory records
Hi Sammy --
The majority of post-1943 H & B bats without model numbers on the knob (through 1979) or on the barrel (post-1979) are found as individual player post-1975 World Series and All-Star bats. Another large group of numberless H & B professional bats were produced during a factory strike in 1974 (with otherwise appropriate 1973-1975 labeling.)
Many collectors are uncomfortable collecting an H & B pro model bat without a number. The bat could be a a commemorative or souvenir bat,a retail bat (possibly with a sanded knob), or, yes, a pro bat that 'missed' quality control.
Are you able to match the bat to a known H & B model, then to the factory records of the player whose name is stamped on the barrel? If so, remember that model numbers, although a key item in professional model bats, are still only one factor by which authenticity may be judged. Do the use characteristics match a known pattern of use for the specific player? I would be more concerned about a superstar or HOF bat with no model number, as the potential for 'alteration' is much greater.
Good Luck. Any additional information or pictures would be helpful to the forum.
Mike Jackitout7@aol.com
Hi Sammy --
The majority of post-1943 H & B bats without model numbers on the knob (through 1979) or on the barrel (post-1979) are found as individual player post-1975 World Series and All-Star bats. Another large group of numberless H & B professional bats were produced during a factory strike in 1974 (with otherwise appropriate 1973-1975 labeling.)
Many collectors are uncomfortable collecting an H & B pro model bat without a number. The bat could be a a commemorative or souvenir bat,a retail bat (possibly with a sanded knob), or, yes, a pro bat that 'missed' quality control.
Are you able to match the bat to a known H & B model, then to the factory records of the player whose name is stamped on the barrel? If so, remember that model numbers, although a key item in professional model bats, are still only one factor by which authenticity may be judged. Do the use characteristics match a known pattern of use for the specific player? I would be more concerned about a superstar or HOF bat with no model number, as the potential for 'alteration' is much greater.
Good Luck. Any additional information or pictures would be helpful to the forum.
Mike Jackitout7@aol.com
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