The New York Yankees ball cap. It’s probably the most iconic symbol of professional American sports. The simple, yet classic intertwined white “NY” on a solid navy blue cap has been the symbol of American victory and professionalism since the days of Ruth and Gehrig. More Hall of Famers have donned this cap than any other team in the history of the game. For a young ballplayer, being issued one by a clubhouse man upon joining the team was the ultimate proof that they had reached the pinnacle of their profession.

This offered timeless Yankees ball cap is authenticated to one of the greatest players to ever wear one: Mickey Charles Mantle. The cap was originally purchased from an antiques dealer in the 1980’s who had obtained it from the owner of a Cleveland restaurant. According to the owner, the establishment was frequented by numerous Yankees players during the 1940’s-1960’s and that this cap was gifted to the restaurant. As this story cannot be firmly documented, the uniform experts at MEARS have thoroughly examined this cap and based on the following details, have determined this cap to be a 1951-1963-era cap – Mantle’s prime years. The 6-panel design and 7-stitch brim matches other 1951-63 examples of McAuliffe-made Yankees caps. An article from the Lowell, MA Sun newspaper dated October 1, 1952 notes that the Yankees were wearing a new set of caps for their series with Boston made by McAuliffe. The style of McAuliffe tag sewn inside the cap was used by the Boston company from 1951 through 1963. A “KM Pro” tag, which this cap does not have, was sewn alongside the McAuliffe label in the period around 1954-55 to around 1955-56. The white leather headband is stamped with “7 ¼”, which is consistent with the cap size worn by Mickey Mantle during this period.

The cap displays heavy game wear. The navy blue fabric is well worn with period dirt and some sun bleaching. The bill has a break, a trait consistent with documented Mantle game worn caps. The white leather sweatband shows much cracking but remains intact. The underside of the brim displays dirt and marks consistent with the putting on and taking off the cap. The best part is the hand lettered number “7” in black marker underneath the brim. MEARS has determined that this “7” is consistent with other examples with respect to the “shape, size, and placement of the 7.” This cap comes with an LOA from MEARS for the game use.

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