When did autograph signature stamps start?

Answer 1

In 1905 Honus Wagner, a star for the Pittsburgh Pirates, signed a contract with Hillerich & Bradsby co. and became the first player ever to endorse a bat. His autograph was also the first to be used on a bat and the first known professional athlete endorsement of a retail product. By the 1920's Facsimile "stamped signatures began to appear on Baseball gloves. Honus Wagner signature model gloves were one of the earliest example of an endorsed baseball glove circa 1915-1920. Around 1950 baseballs that featured facsimile stamped signatures of ballplayers became a popular souvenir at the ballparks. As early the 1903 Major League baseballs featured the Stamped signatures of the league presidents. See Related Links below for more information on stamped signature baeballs, glove, and bats.