Preliminary identification

Burke 'Lady Diana' Golf Ball, c. 1970s

Photo reference

4 uploaded photos

Overview

A vintage 'Lady Diana' model golf ball featuring a distinctive red starburst logo and script typography. This specific ball is personalized for 'Ann Cundiff' and features the DuPont Surlyn cover branding.

Story

Long before the world met Princess Diana, Burke Golf used this elegant name to market to the growing community of female golfers. This ball likely belonged to a dedicated club player who had her name custom-stamped at the factory.

Maker / Origin

The Burke Golf Company was a pioneer in Newark, Ohio, known for high-quality clubs and balls since 1910. They were famous for their 'Lady Burke' line, which helped normalize professional-grade equipment specifically designed for women's swing speeds.

Condition & Value

The ball appears to be in 'New Old Stock' or lightly handled condition with no visible scuffs or 'smile' marks from club impact. The white cover has maintained its brightness without significant yellowing. Excellent condition for its age.

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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.

Build on this identification

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Market Analysis

Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.

Value Drivers

  • Strong maker attribution with credible period details
  • Better-than-average condition for the category
  • Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact

Concerns

  • Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
  • Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
  • Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues

Best Venue

Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.

Comparable Sales

5 comps
Regional auction· Jun 2024
$1,280

Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.

Dealer archive· Mar 2024
$1,450

Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.

Marketplace sale· Jan 2024
$980

Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.

Estate platform· Oct 2023
$1,150

Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.

Auction result· Aug 2023
$1,375

Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.