I bought this at an estate auction and will have it authenticated, but I'm hoping to learn if anyone can see anything glaring that says it is or isn't the real deal.
What worries me is: 1. No markings on the ball saying Rawlings or MLB or anything. Is that unusual? 2. The ink is all the same color. Again, is that a red flag? 3. Ed Arbrister signed the ball Edison Arbrister, and I can't find anything to indicate he ever signed autographs using his full name. I know Sparky Anderson and Jack Billingham did sometimes sign using their given names (as this ball shows).
What reassures me is: 1. Writing near or on the stitches. Under a jeweler's loop you can see this was done using a pen, as opposed to being stamped on. 2. The ball is signed by Alex Grammas, the third base coach. Would forgers throw in an unexpected name like that?
Anyway, would love to hear your opinions.