From the turn of the century through the Deadball Era, the 1920s evolution of the home run, the Great Depression, World War II, expansion and everything in between, Major League records, rules and traditions have come and gone. Among the constants, however, is the weaponry turned by Kentucky’s famed Louisville Slugger plant. Since 1897, the overwhelming majority of big leaguers have wielded Hillerich & Bradsby weapons. In-house production was a source of pride. So, too, were the logos assigned to and created by lithographer Palm & Fechteler, the producer of these original salesman’s sample promotional model decals.

Among the most appealing war clubs were the company’s “promotional” models issued between 1910 and 1915. In a departure from the deep and defined factory stampings, these examples features colorful decals simultaneously promoting the manufacturer and Major League superstars. Fleeting because of their limited production, these weapons are widely sought for the simple fact that they were crafted to the players’ specification and thus, often used in actual games. Regardless of professional use or retail status, the scant few survivors are treasures, indeed. In most instances, the ostentatious decals have flaked almost completely, with time and game use being the culprits. It is absolutely amazing to view these Victorian-style compositions near or at their original state. Displayed on a 6-15/16 x 10-15/16” placard, decals for bats respectively promoting Ty Cobb, Harry Gowdy and Honus Wagner are as they appeared when presented for review. While each of these has endured minimal flaking, the colors remain magnificent. Imagine, if you can, encountering the furniture-like bat barrel accented by one of these decals, beckoning you to carry it to the counter for purchase. This priceless trio evokes thoughts of such an encounter. This item has a reserve (estimated value: $3000-$5000).