Hallmarked Silver Mounted Cricket Ball c.1915

An exceptional and highly evocative First World War period cricket presentation ball, mounted with a hallmarked sterling silver shield and dated 17th July 1915. Manufactured by Wm. Sykes & Son, Manchester, one of the leading English sporting goods makers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The original gilt maker’s stamp remains clearly visible to the reverse. “Presented to G. Oxby Esq. For the 1st XI for taking 3 Wickets with 3 Consecutive Balls July 17, 1915.” The ball is an original red leather cricket ball, stamped “SPECIAL” above the shield, traditional hand-stitched central seam. The date places this piece firmly in the early years of the First World War, when organised county cricket had largely ceased and the game continued at club, works, and regimental level. Presentation pieces from this wartime period are increasingly scarce. **PLEASE NOTE - STAND FOR DISPLAY ONLY**