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When exploring baseball memorabilia and aiming to discover valuable items, collectors often look for balls, cards, and even photos signed by renowned players like Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, or Willie Mays. However, they might not immediately recognize the potential value linked to a less remembered player: Frank Chance. As of mid-June 2025, Chance’s autographed baseball was listed on Amazon for a staggering $160,357.49. The signed baseball includes a certificate of authenticity from the Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), a credible company that has authenticated over 35 million sports memorabilia items.
Therefore, when searching for valuable baseball cards hidden in a closet, attending baseball card shows, or browsing online, keep an eye out for the name Frank Chance. Although Chance rarely signed autographs, and despite the signed ball on Amazon claiming to be the only baseball Frank Chance ever signed, his signature does occasionally appear on documents, assisting in identifying a potential find.
Who is Frank Chance?
Born in September 1876, this Fresno, California native began playing professional baseball before the establishment of today’s Major League Baseball (MLB). Starting with the Chicago Orphans in 1898, Chance initially played as a catcher and outfielder before becoming a first baseman in 1902. The MLB was formed in 1903, and the Orphans subsequently became the Chicago Cubs. Chance continued with the Chicago team until 1912, excelling as a hitter and base stealer, leading his team to four National League pennants and two World Championships between 1906 and 1910. Traded to the New York Yankees, Chance played for them in 1913 and 1914 but underperformed due to severe headaches from repeated head injuries.
For several years, Chance served as a player-manager—a rarity, with only 222 instances since 1876, according to Baseball Almanac. This is notable considering approximately 21,000 men have played professional baseball since 1876. Chance played during baseball’s Deadball Era (1901-1920), where conditions favored pitchers, and the average team batting average was .254. However, Chance’s career batting average was .296 with 1,274 hits, stealing 403 bases and scoring 798 runs, earning him a place in the Baseball Hall of Fame. Despite his achievements, examples of Chance signing memorabilia are extremely limited.
Baseball collectibles and their value
Determining the value of sports collectibles involves looking for proper documentation to ensure authenticity, which the Amazon listing for Chance’s baseball provides. Buying collectibles online can be risky, especially with potential fraud, even with authentication documents, so always verify. To avoid purchasing items with forged PSA documentation, check the specific documentation number directly on the PSA site. Additionally, PSA now encloses certified cards, tickets, and other items in clear, plastic, tamper-evident cases that are sealed securely. If the holder’s edges appear cloudy, have cracks, or the plastic feels flexible, the item was likely tampered with.
When collectibles like the Chance baseball are for sale, remember the difference between the asking price and the selling price. When observing sports memorabilia values, focus on what collectors actually pay for the items. For instance, Heritage Auctions sold a 1905 vault-marked bat of Chance’s in 2021 for $132,000. Also, understand the distinction between rarity and scarcity. The Chance autographed baseball is rare due to its limited existence but would be considered scarce if demand exceeds supply. The significant sale of Chance’s bat suggests demand for that specific item, which may or may not extend to other Chance memorabilia.
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