October Legends Closing October 27,2018
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/27/2018
Graded MINT 9 by PSA. Hall of Famer. Among more than 5,600 copies recorded in PSA’s census reporting, just one, single example has been awarded a higher tier. For 1957, Topps took an abrupt turn in the styling of its baseball cards. What once had been big, became smaller. What was once viewed horizontally, became vertical. Artwork transitioned without warning into photographic portrayal. And so on. The offered card helps to explain why the card-buying public embraced the changes rather than resisting them. This stellar presentation of Mickey Mantle, Topps' first under the "new regime" of art direction, is sufficiently breathtaking to immediately validate the company's adroit shift in aesthetic philosophy. A mirror-like, glossy surface defines the standard of appearance to which all '57 Topps cards aspire (but which so few actually attain). Corners are outstanding in their definition, and the card's printing is unblemished with none of the "snow" that sometimes plagues the issue. This card is a blazer in every respect, and it reminds the nostalgic observer to view Topps' format revision with admiration, not chagrin. An absolutely tremendous example of one of Mantle's most popular cards, in indisputable Mint condition.