Circa 1897 Leather Laced Basketball With Side Panel Construction

A Glimpse into Basketball’s Early Days: The 1890s Laced Leather Basketball

Historical Significance and Unique Design

Step back in time to the formative years of basketball with this exquisite 8-panel basketball, a relic from the 1890s. Crafted from laced leather, this ball is a testament to the sport’s rich heritage. Unlike the pebble grain leather used on “Official” Spalding basketballs in 1899, this ball features a smooth leather finish, offering a tactile connection to the past.

Measuring an impressive 35.5 inches in circumference, this ball is notably larger than the first basketball manufactured in 1894, which was 3.5 inches smaller. The rubber bladder and stitching, while not original, do not detract from its historical allure. The ball’s design includes two circular panels on the sides, each with a diameter of 3.75 inches, adding to its distinctive appearance.

A Rare Photographic Connection

Adding to its mystique, this basketball is linked to a rare photograph from the 1898 Spalding Guide, depicting the Rochester Y.M.C.A. Basketball team with a similar ball. This image, discovered after extensive research at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, is the only known photograph that matches the style of this ball, underscoring its rarity and historical importance.

Provenance and Historical Context

The journey of this basketball is as intriguing as its design. According to our consignor, it was acquired by a Yugoslav immigrant in the 1950s in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This aligns with the introduction of basketball to South America in 1896 by a missionary in São Paulo, where Mackenzie College organized Brazil’s first men’s basketball team. This ball stands as the oldest we have ever encountered, predating the Basketball Hall of Fame’s earliest example from 1904.

Why This Basketball Matters

• Historical Significance: Represents the early evolution of basketball equipment.
• Unique Design: Features a smooth leather finish and distinctive paneling.
• Rare Provenance: Linked to a photograph from the 1898 Spalding Guide.
• Cultural Impact: Reflects the global spread of basketball in the late 19th century.

An Opportunity for Collectors

The winner of this lot will not only acquire a piece of basketball history but also receive a copy of a letter of endorsement from the former President of the U.S. National Soccer Hall of Fame, adding further prestige to this remarkable artifact. This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of the sport’s early legacy, a true gem for any sports memorabilia enthusiast.

For those interested in expanding their collection with such unique items, explore our basketball memorabilia auctions and discover more treasures from the world of sports. Whether you’re looking to consign sports memorabilia or simply appraise your collection, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the realm of sports memorabilia appraisals.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.