While the 1951 New York Yankees season was notable for yet another World Series championship, another factor makes it a unique season in Bronx folklore. If American League pitchers were pleased that Joe DiMaggio was in his final year in pinstripes, they were unaware that a rookie named Mickey Mantle was a budding legend in his own right. As was customary in the era, DiMaggio’s autograph graces the sweet spot of this Official American League William Harridge stamped baseball that has been signed by 26 members of the 1951 World Series Champion Yankees. Mantle’s early-career signature appears on the east panel along with Fred Sanford, Frank Shea, Joe Ostrowski, Bill Martin, Hall of Famer Johnny Mize and Johnny Hopp. The west panel with the Reach stamp has the signatures of Hall of Famer Yogi Berra, Tommy Byrne, Jackie Jensen, Vic Raschi, Bobby Brown and Cliff Mapes. The south panel has the signatures of Jerry Coleman, Gene Woodling, Gil McDougald, Ed Lopat and Allie Reynolds. The north panel has the signatures of Tom Ferrick, Hall of Famer Phil Rizzuto, Charlie Silvera, Hank Bauer, Tom Morgan, Ralph Houk and Joe Collins. The ball is in excellent overall condition, displaying only minor toning. The stampings are clear and the signatures have all been penned in black ink and present strong. This ball comes with a LOA from PSA/DNA (J28773). Please note that PSA/DNA will be revising their LOA to reflect 26 signatures, including Yogi Berra.

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