Graded VG 3 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in his debut gum card appearance. Presented is a visually enticing specimen of Mickey Mantle's true Rookie Card. In the inevitable comparison to the physically larger, double-printed 1952 Mantle card from Bowman's competitor, this sought-after piece is perpetually undervalued and famously condition-sensitive. And, there always seem to be fewer 1951 Bowman "High Number"-series Mantle rookies available than there are of the slugger's '52 Topps counterpart. Fundamentally sound in every respect, this piece presents quite well for its grade: the card boasts generally robust corners, sharp print resolution and a bright, clean illustration (barely registering a vestigial incarnation of the depiction's typical print line). Traces of mild and transparent discoloration at two edges on the reverse are likely attributable to residual wrapper-wax contact from the piece's original packaging. Very Good condition, with much stronger eye appeal than the standard suggested by that modest grading assessment.

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