How to Find the Value of an Autographed Baseball Bat

It can be hard to put a price tag on autographed memorabilia like baseball bats. Like everything of value, it comes down to four factors: the market demand for it, the rarity of the item, the condition of the signature and bat and the importance of the player in baseball history. Whether you are deciding to sell it or just want to have it appraised for your own knowledge, there are several ways you can estimate the value and certain factors you can research.

Instructions

    • 1

      Research the baseball player's personal achievements and awards such as a Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, Golden Glove award and Cy Young award, three of baseball's most prestigious awards. The number of awards the player has won can add significant value to your autographed bat because it symbolizes the player's impact on baseball. Players like Mickey Mantle, Babe Ruth and Jackie Robinson, who shape the history of baseball and are remembered for their accomplishments, will fetch far more than an autograph from an average player.

    • 2

      Check how much other people are selling their autographed baseball bats for at online reseller marketplaces such as eBay and Craigslist. The sports memorabilia retailer Steiner Sports sells thousands of autographed items at prices consumers are willing to pay. Access the Steiner Sports database and type in the player's name followed by key words "Autographed Baseball Bat" and see if there is a price listed.

    • 3

      Find an appraiser of sports memorabilia. If you cannot make out the signature, but believe your autographed baseball bat is genuine and old, appraisers are willing to assess your item at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York. Local sports memorabilia store owners can usually give you estimates on the value of the bat. Appraisals and value will be much higher if the bat is in good condition and the autograph is legible and authentic.

    • 4

      Follow an online sports memorabilia auction such as Lelands and American Memorabilia Auctions. Wait until the auction closes to determine how much someone is willing to pay for the player's autograph on a baseball bat. You can request an appraisal from one of the auction appraisers and, if you choose, list the item on their website for auctioning.