Billiard Ball Number 11 Value Guide

This vintage number 11 billiard ball represents the mid-20th-century shift toward phenolic resin, a material that replaced ivory to provide superior durability and balance. Featuring a classic red stripe, it is a quintessential piece of 1960-1980s pool hall history used in standard games like eight-ball.

What affects the value of Billiard Ball Number 11?

• Overall surface condition, including the presence of chips, cracks, or heavy yellowing.
• The vibrancy of the red stripe pigment and the clarity of the number 11 printing.
• Consistency in weight and balance, which is critical for collectors of functional vintage equipment.
• Market demand for individual replacement balls versus complete vintage sets.

How to Identify Billiard Ball Number 11?

• Verify the regulation size and weight consistent with mid-century phenolic resin standards.
• Inspect the red stripe and '11' numeral for the specific pigment application common in the 1960-1980 era.
• Check for the characteristic smooth, non-porous surface texture unique to high-quality phenolic compounds.
• Look for signs of authentic play wear that align with the age of the materials used.

History of Billiard Ball Number 11

For centuries, billiard balls were primarily crafted from ivory, leading to high cost and ecological concerns. The demand for a consistent, durable, and affordable alternative spurred innovation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, leading to the development of early plastics like celluloid. By the mid-20th century, superior phenolic resins were introduced, offering excellent durability and balanced weight, establishing the standard for modern pool balls like this striped example used in games such as eight-ball.