Antique Hillerich & Bradsby Baseball Bat
Functional Object / Sports Memorabilia • Hillerich & Bradsby Co. (Louisville Slugger)
Style & Movement
American Industrial / Vernacular Sports Design
Medium & Technique
Turned Ash wood with heat-branded stamping and vernis finish
Creation Period
Circa 1920s-1940s
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 33-35 inches in length; cylindrical tapering format
Subject Description
A professional-grade wooden baseball bat featuring the iconic oval logo transition of the Hillerich & Bradsby company. The branding includes the 'Powerized' or 'Oil Tempered' era markings common in the early to mid-20th century.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; shows significant signs of age, use, and surface oxidation
Estimated Market Value
$150 - $450 (Value highly dependent on specific player model name, if visible upon closer inspection)
Auction Estimate
$200 - $400
Provenance History
Likely professional or semi-professional athletic use followed by long-term private storage; features a classic 'Hillerich & Bradsby' oval trade mark used in Louisville, KY.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the golden age of American baseball and the industrial craftsmanship of the world's most famous bat manufacturer. It serves as a cultural touchstone of 20th-century Americana.
Notable Features
Features the early H&B oval logo which is highly sought after by sports historians and collectors of vintage 'Louisville Sluggers.'
Condition Issues
Surface abrasions, wood grain drying, fading of the heat-branded logo, potential 'dead wood' from impact, and minor staining from previous grip tape or handling.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment with stable humidity to prevent wood splitting. Do not apply modern oils; light dusting with a soft cloth is recommended.