Over the past twenty five years, collecting baseball memorabilia has become a popular and profitable hobby for fans of all ages. There is an active market among baseball aficionados for baseball cards, bats, uniforms, ticket stubs and autographs. One of the most popular facets of baseball memorabilia collecting is the collecting of baseballs - either signed or unsigned.
Some of the most sought after balls are autographed balls and balls that have been played in a major-league game. Balls that are associated with important historical baseball events - such as balls tossed in a no-hitter, home-run balls, World Series or playoff balls - are valued very highly in the sports memorabilia community.
Baseballs can be found in many places. Online auctions have recently become an increasingly popular place to find baseballs. Most communities now boast many sports memorabilia stores, and there are a number of touring sports and baseball collectibles shows that tour the nation.
At many these sports shows you are able to pay a premium to have a ball autographed by some of your favorite players. Many hall-of-famers and retired players make the autograph circuit. Be on the lookout for a sports and card show coming soon to an area near you. Be warned that a ball from a players playing days is more highly valued than one signed in retirement.
Another place to have baseballs autographed is at games. Many popular players spend time before and after games chatting with fans and giving out autographs. Get to the game early and hang out by the dugout during batting practice. Spring training is also a very good time to get autographed balls, especially from young up-and-comers who are flattered and eager to give out autographs. Also, during spring training, players are more relaxed than during a heated pennant race.
Be wary when purchasing collectible baseballs from a dealer with whom you do not have an established relationship. Do not be afraid to ask for proof of authentication of the ball - either a signed affidavit or an appraisal. This is especially true when purchasing highly priced items. Paying an appraiser is a worthwhile cost to ensure that the baseball you are paying hard earned money for is authentic.
Look for autographed balls that are clean and white. The autograph should be legible and neat. Balls are valued based on a combination of their availability and the player’s status. A baseball signed by Babe Ruth in clean white condition is invaluable. A ball signed by a mediocre player who signed thousands of balls illegibly is valued less so.
Players who are collectable vary from year to year. Players who are sought after by collectors include current All-Stars, recently retired players, recently deceased players, and potential hall-of-famers. An especial premium is placed on balls signed by those who are already in the Hall of Fame. Autographed balls from deceased players are valuable because there will no longer be any more balls signed by them entering the market. If you are interested in collecting baseballs, it is obvious that you are probably already familiar with the players who are popular.
To preserve the value of the baseball, it is important to leave the surface of the ball untarnished by any agent. Do not use any wax, varnish, shellac, polyurethane or other protective coating on the ball - that is an easy way to drastically decrease your ball’s value. Most dealers sell acrylic ball holders which come on a variety of stands and mounts. To prevent mold buildup and warping it is important to keep your ball in a temperature and humidity controlled room. Also, make sure to never expose your ball to direct sunlight, as this will hasten the yellowing process.
Remember these tips and you will be ensured a long-lasting, fun, fulfilling and profitable hobby of baseball collecting.
