Jim Gilliam Bat Records

[MGHProductions]

Hi,
Do you have any info on Gilliam bats available. In particular, M117 from 50-60.
Thanks
Matt

[MSpecht]

Hi Matt--

M117 are among the earliest Gilliam bats shipped. They are fiund only in 1953 (35" / 32 oz....first signature model) and 1952 (34.5' / 32 and 33 oz.....35' / 32 oz).

Gilliams first ML game was 4/14/53, so any 35 inch M117 would be a Minor League bat, and a 34.5 inch M117 could be from his last order in 1952 or his first order in 1953....

Interestingly, Gilliam never ordered that model again after early 1953.

Good luck

Mike Jackitout7@aol.com

[MGHProductions]

Mike.
Thanks for the info.

The bat measures a little over 34 1/4 but not 34 1/2.. Is there any way to date the bat to the early 50's opposed to a later possible team index bat by the markings at all?

Thanks
Matt

[MGHProductions]

Mike.
In your post, do you have the dates backwards. Were 34.5 ordered in 1953 or 52?
Thanks
Matt

[MSpecht]

Hi Matt-- Thanks for catching that somewhat confusing post...

There is an acceptable variance of + .25 inches that is common to most authenticators, so the length is acceptable. To attempt to date your bat more specifically within the 1950-1960 labeling period, look at the lettering of the word "GENUINE" and the words "LOUISVILLE SLUGGER" on the barrel label. In general, the more square the lettering, the earlier in the labeling period the bat was manufactured. Samples can be seen in the book BATS on page 34 . If that is not available, perhaps you can post a picture of the center and barrel labeling on the bat and get feedback, or email me a photo of the labeling to the address below and I will try to help further.

HERE IS THE CORRECTED POST:



M117 batsare among the earliest Gilliam bats shipped. They are fiund only in 1951 (35" / 32 oz.(first signature model) , 1952 (34.5" / 33 oz and 35"/ 32 oz). and 1953 (34.5" / 32 oz);

Gilliam's first ML game was 4/14/53, so any 35 inch M117 would be a Minor League bat (pre-rookie), and a 34.5 inch M117 could be from his last order in 1952 or his first order in 1953....

Interestingly, Gilliam never ordered that model again after early 1953.

Good luck

Mike Jackitout7@aol.com

[MGHProductions]

Mike.
Here are some photos. Let me know your thoughts.
Thanks again,
Matt