(LOT 177)
Mickey Mantle 1956 Yellow Base-Path PM15 "Litho" Pinback (PSA 7) – "1 of 5"!
Arguably the most popular of all 1950's pinbacks are the 32-subject 1956 Yellow Base-Path pins issued with a green background and small black & white portrait images. Obtained from bubble gum machines found in local "five & dime" stores and supermarkets, their immense condition sensitivity stems from the fact that the lithographic images were NOT encased by a fine celluloid casing, with the images simply printed directly onto the metal surface with zero protection. Presented here just happens to be the most desirable and valuable subject in the set, a magnificent PSA 7 example of Mickey Mantle; one of 5 at the Near-Mint level with only 12 examples graded higher!

Adding to the charisma of this highly coveted pinback is that it was issued during "The Mick's" greatest season, with Mantle claiming the American League Triple Crown via his 52 home runs, 130 runs batted in and .353 batting average. The Yankees would go on to capture the world championship that season, and likewise, this miraculous pin atypically exhibits the aesthetics of a near-mint+ example. Only two diminutive scratches can be found near the upper left surface with the remaining green background portraying virtually all of its original green ink.

The yellow base paths are super clean, Mantle's hallowed portrait image is crystal clear, and his black texted name is boldly affixed directly above along the lower rim. The circular perimeter remains tightly enforced, and the verso's pin clasp is completely intact. A sensational keepsake from the "Commerce Comet's" finest season ever, this 7/8" diameter sized marvel would be one of the highlights of any elite pinback gathering via its superb PSA 7 assessment!

MIN BID $200
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