Summer Premium Card and Memorabilia Auction Closing August 7 & 9
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/8/2021
Graded NM 7 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in a sought-after Rookie Card appearance. Among nearly 1,950 copies recorded in PSA's census reporting, fewer than five percent have been placed at a higher, unqualified tier. Exclusively, this is the debut collectible of Willie Mays, whose card number 305 emerged among Bowman's scarcer, late-season series of "High Numbers." The Giants' young star, whose determination is tellingly revealed within this item's portrayal (a depiction universally cherished within our hobby) was just beginning to demonstrate his unique talents at the time the memento was released. Very soon, however, the great player came to dominate his sport. At one time or another, he led the league in virtually every category. Mays is generally considered to have been the greatest defensive outfielder of all time, and many fans forget that when he retired, only Babe Ruth had more home runs. Had he not lost nearly two seasons to military service, Mays would no doubt have eclipsed that record. The horizontal "rookie" pose displayed on this nicely centered, gently toned card presents marvelously. The card's corners are commendably sharp, with barely touched character, and no wrapper stains disrupt the reverse. Near Mint condition.