Treasure hunt: taking a swing at golf collectibles.

• Author: Nameth, Louise

While most golf memorabilia--even recent Tiger Woods autographs--are collectible, aficionados relish finding rare clubs and balls that date back to the mid-1800s. Older "feather" golf balls bearing a manufacturer's mark are usually more valuable than those without a mark. Golf balls made of gutta-percha, known as "gutty" balls to collectors, can easily sell for $100 apiece and wooden shaft golf clubs can be worth several thousand dollars in the right market. Of concern are reproductions, especially golf balls imitating l800s models, that have infiltrated the secondary market. There's a lot to consider and learn, so it's wise to study up before starting a golf memorabilia collection and to buy from a knowledgeable dealer.

Did you know that King James II took the drastic measure of banning golf as a sport in l457? He actually feared the practice of regular golfing would interfere with developing archery skills, the main form of conducting warfare during that time. Fortunately, for those who love the game as well as with collecting, The Scottish Golf Society reports their ancestors largely ignored the ban and continued to play. On March 17, 1744, a few...