Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends and Folks, do we have a treat for you today.
Earlier this year, whilst browsing the hallowed halls of eBay, The Ministry stumbled upon what can only be described as the holy grail of British baseball memorabilia. To tell the whole truth, I was actually looking for a replica GB baseball jersey from any of the previous recent tournaments (I do this just on a whim occasionally, to see if anything new pops up) when I was struck with one of those rare moments in life where you get to do an actual, honest to God, spit take.
Because, just below the first couple of listings, that unfortunately were not fruitful, was what was listed as a genuine signed baseball, game used, from the 1938 Amateur World Series. Officially hailed by the WBSC as the first baseball world cup, and grandfather of the current World Baseball Classic.
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| Inscribed on the ball in green ink, details game two of the 1938 Amateur World Series. Including teams, date and final score (Credit: The Ministry of Baseball) |
The seller had acquired the ball from an auction house specialising in sports memorabilia, and made their living acquiring via similar means and flipping them for profit. With over 3000 items sold and a 5* seller rating, I was inclined to believe that this was the genuine article.
It’s original list price was well above what I could afford at the time, so I added it to my watchlist and bided my time (and funds) in the hopes it would stick around long enough for me to make a viable offer. And to cut a long story short, last week I made an offer… and now possess a golden age relic of British baseball. Full gallery below.
As can be seen from the inscription, this ball was used during game two of the AWS between Great Britain and the USA, played at Old Craven Park in Kingston-Upon-Hull. And is signed by the entire GB squad as well as some of their American opponents. Simply Astonishing.
The British side won this particular game 8-6, securing a second victory on their way to claiming the series 4 games to 1.
The ball itself is of some interest too. ‘Royal Match Ball’ was a brand of baseball popular during the 1930’s, and mint condition specimens in the original tube packaging have sold for north of $1,500 at auction. The company also produced specialised balls for the local variation of Welsh or ‘British’ baseball, played in Wales, Liverpool and Gloucester as well as Scotland and Ireland to a lesser degree, in the 19th century.
The real kicker is that the ball was actually produced in Japan, as can be seen printed on the ball itself. Adding even more international flavour to an already extraordinary artefact!
Personal Update: On a personal note, this year has been a tough one for myself. Between starting a new job and persistent health problems, The Ministry has unfortunately fallen by the wayside. It has not been the year I’d hoped it’d be in many respects. But, it looks like I’m ending it with a bang! So thank you all for engaging with The Ministry over the past year, and here’s to a MUCH better 2025!
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