[BrandonG]

I think there are a lot of attributes to an actual authentic 19th century ball that would be difficult to replicate, even if someone was using vintage leather, thread, and stuffing. There's just certain ways the leather reacts to having been stitched tightly for 150+ years in comparison to how it would look if it were stitched yesterday. The x-ray is a start yes, but there are many that I wouldn't even waste the time or money to x-ray because I can tell just by looking at the exterior. The construction, the wear & tear, intentional scuffing looks different than age wear. etc.

I'll post some pictures of fake vs. authentic later, and point out obvious flaws.