Best auction house to consign autographed ball?
 

Hey guys, if you were to consign an expensive autographed ball, like a Ruth or the likes, what auction house would you choose for best results?

Trying to help my brother in law but this is not even close to my area of expertise so would like to read your input on this.

Heritage, Leland’s, Goldin

REA or Lelands

If you want hassle-free with no surprises, stick with Hunt or REA. I believe both charge a flat 10%, and they won't be making you pay for authentication like some of the other houses are known to do. Both have always been easy to deal with.

I've never consigned with Leland's, so can't offer an opinion there.

I've used REA (Robert Edwards Auction) and had nothing but good experiences with them.

Your brother in law should spend some time on line and get a realistic idea as the range of possible valuation. For most items you can find comparable signed balls on line pretty easily. In my experience people who are not in the hobby tend to have wildly inflated views as to what some pieces are worth. My brother in law still insists that the circa 1970s autographed Mickey Mantle 8x10 glossy my father in law has in the living room (which likely isn't even real) is worth many thousands of dollars.

I've turned $1000 16 x 20 mantle's and others into zero with the autograph fading right off from the sun. So much for the special framing with UV and archival glass, LOL.

REA or LOTG