Great thread...thanks for getting this one started as early equipment and memorabila remain our primary and most enjoyable area of interest.
Here are a few pieces of printed material/images in our collection that fit the pre-1880 criteria.
1. Although just a fairy tale drummed up by the Mills Commission, Abner Doubleday is still very much connected to the mythology of the game. Here is an original Matthew Brady portrait of the Civil War General.
2. Nice, studio posed CDV of a late 1860's-1870's era player.
3. Double paned tin type image of two ball players. One action pose and one seated.
4. Single paned tin type depicting two uniformed players.
5. Program for a day of sports that included Base Ball from Euclid Ohio in 1875
www.dugouttreasures.com