(LOT 156)
1971 Topps #600 Willie Mays PSA 9 MINT
Trying to locate PSA "Mint 9" 1971 Topps cards is synonymous to that iconic adage "finding a needle in a haystack". Enthusiasts surely realize that the technical stigma of the 1971 Topps issue is the ultra-condition sensitive black borders that typically reveal any diminutive blemish to the naked eye. PSA's illustrious "pop" chart more than justifies that notion with its 285,000+ encapsulated examples only producing a meager 2.9% "Mint 9" specimens. Furthermore, if you are attempting the seemingly impossible endeavor of finding a "Gem Mint 10" copy, you might not invest a wealth of time into your search considering that a microscopic-like .07% of the subjects reflect the pinnacle "10" grade.

That said, presented here is an absolutely awe-inspiring PSA "Mint 9" Willie Mays 1971 Topps #600 marvel, with only eleven other examples at this hallowed plateau and NONE graded higher. Unfathomable as it may seem, PSA has encapsulated over 2,150 specimens with not a sole copy achieving the sanctified 'Gem Mint 10 assessment! This "best of the rest" offering resides is the ideal cardboard masterpiece to represent the "Say Hey Kid" who arguably stands as our National Pastime's greatest all-time "5-tool" player. Mays could hit, run, throw and run as good or better than any player who ever graced a baseball diamond and this "Mint" memento keeps his immortal legacy alive in a resounding manner via its breathtaking aesthetics.

The legendary portrait pose reflects stunning contrast, sparkling hues and crystal clear clarity as Mays reveals a good-natured grin. The black borders appear to be completely intact, atypically retaining virtually their entire factory issued black color. The razor sharp corners exhibit 90-degree formations, the surfaces are nearly immaculate, and the fine centering only reveals a hint of favoritism towards the left edge. A magnificent portrayal of the immortal "Say Hey Kid", its paucity level for the grade elevates this museum worthy gem to a card collecting plateau reserved for our hobby's most sophisticated collectors!

MIN BID $2,500

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MLI is offering The "Mays Fan Club Collection" - #1 on the PSA Set Registry in an alternative selling format. All Lots numbered from 132-158 will be sold individually to the highest bidder, unless Lot # 131's hammer price exceeds the hammer price of Lots 132-158 combined cumulative total. In which case, the cards would be sold as a set. Once bidding starts, the green check mark below simply designates which format has the current high bid. In case of a tie - the set wins.

Lot 131 (Set Total):  $230,000
Lot 132-158 (Individual Card Total):  $406,299