B-Card (Blankets/Felts)

Introduction

b33-harvard-batter B-Cards represent the mini-blanket sets and felt items (including felts and pennants). These were unique collectibles that were issued in lieu of cards by some manufacturers. While most were non-sports related (i.e. flags, college logos/seals, and Native American issues were popular), several sports-themed blanket/felt issues do exist.

As noted by Jefferson Burdick in the American Card Catalog, these were often distributed inside of envelopes and most do not include the name of the manufacturer’s name.

Burdick also notes that these had various uses, including for the sewing of pillows and bedspreads. The miniature rugs were even used in dollhouses and for all sorts of household items.

Several items were printed with tassels at the ends of them with some having been trimmed for the purposes of which Burdick spoke – to be sewn together to create household items. These, of course, are not as valuable as fully intact items.

In terms of basketball felt blankets, the sport is found in only one set – the early 1900s B33 issue highlighted below. It is featured along with baseball, football, hockey, and other minor sports.

While there are several pre-war basketball cards out there, by comparison, they are relatively few compared to other sports.