Look at these beautiful target balls. Is it any wonder that they are highly sought by collectors. 

GLASS TARGET BALLS

As you can see, glass target balls came in all different patterns, sizes and colors. They were, for the most part, hand blown into molds, usually three piece molds and shipped in large barrels packed with wood shavings. The early target balls were plain, but the latter one's has an assortment of patters and colors. The quilted patterns were used to prevent the deflection of shot off of the ball. Also, may of the balls were filled with wood shavings, feathers or powder. It wasn't until 1880 that George Ligowsky invented the first saucer shaped clay target as we use today and the day of the target ball came to a fast close. However, trick shooters continued to used them (Annie Oakley, Doc Carver, Adam Bogardus) into the early 20th century.