This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/2/2012
Honus Wager was the first name and face to be associated with the Louisville Slugger bat company. Professional model decal bats were first used by Wagner during the early part of his career (1905-16 era). Documented examples of professional decal bats were sans and centerbrand numbering.
Store model decal bats were introduced by Louisville Slugger during 1911. These bats were marketed with the 40HW centerbrand. Pro model bats were sans any centerbrand numbering. This bat falls within the known boundaries.
We know that 40K was designated as the Kork Grip, and the 40 was then acceptable in that fashion. Was the 40W an experimental professional model designation, or an experimental store model indicator? There are no records to support either position.
What we do know is this bat dates from the 1911-16 time span, when Wagner was using professional model decal bats and blank barrel examples. This bat measures 33 ¾” in length and weights 35 ounces, both acceptable for Wagner bats from the era.
The decal still remains in 65-75” intact condition, with clear remnants of the Honus Wagner facsimile signature. The bat exhibits heavy game use, and the handle remains uncracked. The bat remains in excellent overall condition. With no supporting factory documentation, MEARS assigned an “Authentic” grade, which verified the model, length, weight, dating, and originality of the bat. The actual use remains a mystery, but this bat is an attraction addition to either a game used bat or decal model collectors. LOA Troy R. Kinunen / MEARS
(Z0312)
LOA Troy Kinunen / MEARS