What is the value of an original Babe Ruth baseball bat which is about 50-60 years old?

Answer 1

In general a Babe Ruth store model bat could be worth between $200. -$500. Besides condition there are many factors that will effect the price more or less. Baseball bats closest to the players size and model number that was used during his playing days will sell at a higher price. Decal bats are very desirable and could sell in the $1,000.'s

The dating of the bat is one of the most important factors on value along with condition. Hillerich & Bradsby Co. Louisville Slugger has used different oval center brands in their history. By identifying the center label, trade marks, and patens you can narrow down the year to what era the bat was made.

For example: a bat made between 1916 - 1929 will have HILLERERICH & BRADSBY Co in the center label as opposed to J.F. HILLERERICH & SON Co as the bats made before. TRADE MARK REG US PAT OFF appears below the oval and changed to TRADE MARK REG in 1930.

"Bone Rubbed" is a process to harden the surface of the bat and appears on bats made in the 1920s The "Powerized"process was first used, and patented by the Hillerich & Bradsby Co. in 1931 and has pat. pending beneath the stamp. Powerized and Bone Rubbed" logo is used during the 1932 season. In 1933 and 1934 you will see it stamped "Powerized and Oil Tempered" which usually is a very light heat foil type print. in 1935 until present, they go with just "Powerized"

During the 1980's Louisville Slugger issued these replicas of Babe Ruth's last style bat, and stamped 1935 on the knob. The majority of these were sold through a mail order company called J. Petterman and listed at around $100. Yes. The same J. Petterman catalogue featured on the television comedy series Seinfeld. These replica bats sell for about $55.-$125, on eBay.

For more information on vintage baseball bats, value, and dating I will leave links below.