Posted 10 years ago
Ginseng108
(46 items)
This is an old pin. Pre-1960s. These were called "meatball" pins, ostensibly for the large circular medallion on the front of the pin. The AMF logo would change in size and position on the pin medallion and this could allow the sequencing of the several variations of this species of pin. You can see that the polymer ring at the base of the pin is cracked. This is very common for old pins with this composition ring. The material oxidizes and becomes brittle like glass. This specimen has clear nail polish applied to keep what's left intact.
The other image is a stylized press photo from 1959 showing three bowling industry executives signing some paperwork. An AMF pin of this same design sits on the desk to the right of the gentlemen.
I have one of these pins that has the word "Tournament" stamped between the two red stripes. It also has a serial number on the other side between the stripes the number is in between two triangles (inverted) with a circular amf logo inside the triangle. I am trying to date this pin and any information regarding this type of pin would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.
I will certainly post if I come upon that information. I am really surprised that as interesting a collectible as bowling pins are, there aren't any guidebooks.