Summer Premium Live and Catalog Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/27/2017
Graded EX-MT 6 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in his debut-year appearance on Topps gum cards. The 1952 Topps number 311 Mickey Mantle rookie is the one modern baseball card that everyone would like to own, and the offered example gives form to collectors' dreams. With its fresh character, the bright, crisp-looking piece is superior to most of its counterparts in the hobby. Its portrait of the Yankee Hall of Famer looks out from a smooth surface distinguished by plenty of original gloss, and there is absolutely no interruption of hue in the solid azure background. The card's projection of color is magnificent, and is especially prominent in the logo field, on the bat, and in Mantle's complexion. Image registration is likewise ideal, and almost no effects of aging or toning can be seen in the brilliant white border and sharply printed design areas. The visual showpiece boasts four sharp, robustly pointed corners, reflecting quality exceeding the item's commendable grade. (Indeed, the observer can't help but wonder: if this piece had been submitted for grading a few years ago – in view of its undeniably fresh attributes – would an even more favorable assessment have been realized?) The reverse of the card exhibits impeccable depth in its red-and-black print. Finally, as a point of reference on value (according to vintagecardprices.com), the twelve most recent 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle PSA EX-MT 6 examples sold – auctioned between November, 2015 and the time of this description's writing in mid-2017 – have averaged nearly $92,000. This is an enviable copy of an avidly cherished and nostalgic classic, and one that is fully deserving of its ultimate, inevitable destination in a proudly held collection. Visibly high-end Excellent to Mint condition.