What is the value of a Hillerich and Bradsby Louisville Slugger 125 bat with PR4 on the knob and an engraved Pete Rose signature?

Answer 1

The PR4 on the knob is an inch mark indicating that it is a store model bat. Inch mark- A term used with Baseball bats referring to the number stamped into the knob of the bat indicating the length on store model bats. Model number is not an inch mark. PR4 Stands for Pete Rose 34 inch bat. 3 or 34 could be used as well.

A Pete Rose 125 Louisville slugger store model bat is worth between $30.-$50. in excellent -near/mint condition, more or less depending on when the bat was made. Value can vary based on bat model, era made, size, and condition. Your bat could have been made during the 1980's, and would be worth less than a bat made during the 1960's

The dating of the bat is one of the most important factors on value along with condition. Hillerich & Bradsby Co. Louisville Slugger has used different oval center brands in their history. By identifying the center label, trade marks, and patens you can narrow down the year to what era the bat was made.

For example: a bat made between 1916 - 1929 will have HILLERERICH & BRADSBY Co in the center label as opposed to J.F. HILLERERICH & SON Co as the bats made before. TRADE MARK REG US PAT OFF appears below the oval and changed to TRADE MARK REG in 1930.

"Bone Rubbed" is a process to harden the surface of the bat and appears on bats made in the 1920s The "Powerized"process was first used, and patented by the Hillerich & Bradsby Co. in 1931 and has pat. pending beneath the stamp. Powerized and Bone Rubbed" logo is used during the 1932 season. In 1933 and 1934 you will see it stamped "Powerized and Oil Tempered" which usually is a very light heat foil type print. in 1935 until present, they go with just "Powerized"I will leave a link below to help you date your Louisville Slugger bat