Offered here is an actual contestant’s badge from Bobby Jones’ first Major Championship appearance as a 14 year old at the 1916 US Amateur. The 1916 US Amateur was held at Merion Golf Club (then called Merion Cricket Club)  – Jones’ first look at the course where he would eventually complete the Grand Slam in 1930.

The 1916 US Amateur is seen by many as Bobby Jones’ first taste of the big time. He was only 14 years old. His father did not want him competing in any national tournaments for 2 more years, but was successfully convinced to allow Bobby to attend the Amateur by the father of his friend Perry Adair, who also qualified for the tournament. Adair’s wealthy father also volunteered to pay for Bobby’s trip. Not only was this trip Bobby Jones’ first Major Championship appearance, it was also young Bobby’s first stay in a big hotel, his first time in a taxi cab, and his first meeting with famed sportswriter Grantland Rice.

The 2004 Gilchrist’s Guide to Golf Collectibles lists this contestant’s badge as “None Known”.

Well, we now know that this contestant’s badge does exist. This original contestant’s badge from the  1916 US Amateur at Merion is in excellent condition.