Spring 2020 Premium Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/20/2020
Please note: There are a few minor scratches on the holder which do not impact the card. We will have the card reholdered before mailing it out to the winning bidder.
Encapsulated and graded GEM MINT 9.5 by BGS, with signature graded "10" by Beckett. Rookie Card, and one of the most widely pursued debut-year collectibles of its generation. The perennial MVP candidate has placed a superb, blue ink signature on the obverse of this extremely desirable, "Red Refractor" commemorative. A special logo on the card's front declares, "Certified Autograph Issue," attesting to the authenticity of the signature and serving as Topps' COA. The card's BGS condition report: Centering 10, Corners 9, Edges 9.5, Surface 9.5. The exclusive, limited-edition piece is serial-numbered "5/5." Such an abbreviated mintage, by itself, defines the concept of "rarity" in terms of indisputable clarity.
Mike Trout holds recognition as the most celebrated ballplayer of his time, a fact affirmed by his signing, in 2019, of the richest contract in baseball history. Trout's athleticism, his personality and his character inspire admiration and devotion among serious and casual fans, alike. His record of achievement – the 3 A.L. MVP Awards, the 8 All-Star Games and the 7 Silver Slugger Awards, to name just a few – represent the foundation of what projects to be an incomparable legacy. Additionally, Trout's constant and determined efforts to improve his skills and elevate the quality of his performance suggest that his past greatness is merely the preamble to an even brighter future.
The industry's most elite signed, limited-edition Mike Trout Rookie Cards have posted across-the-board price increases in recent years, with examples produced in greater numbers than the spectacular piece seen here routinely commanding auction prices well in excess of six figures. However, prospective bidders viewing this amazing Red Refractor collectible, in this particular, newsworthy sale, might in fact be looking at the first half-million-dollar Mike Trout card! This is a truly stellar collectible, featuring the Angels star who is widely regarded as the greatest baseball player of his generation, and its appeal is universal and essentially incalculable. Gem Mint condition.