(LOT 1697)
1956 Topps #135 Signed Mickey Mantle "Gray Back" - PSA AUTHENTIC
One of The Mick's most popular cards continues to be his 1956 Topps #135 subject since it was this magical season that Mantle would capture both the Triple Crown and his fourth World Championship. Presented here is The Mick's 1956 Topps #135 "Gray Back" subject portraying a stellar blue ink autograph directly beneath his classic portrait pose. One of only 35 signed 1956 Topps Mantle's handled by PSA, it represents a microscopic 0.4% of the approximate 8,400 '56 Topps unsigned "Gray Back" examples listed on the illustrious PSA Pop Chart! Indeed, the extreme scarcity of this autographed marvel versus the myriad of unsigned subjects is most significant, once again justifying the immense undervalued stature of signed vintage baseball cards.

It boggles the mind to think that not a single player ever has managed to hit a baseball as far as the Commerce Comet, even in lieu of the vast number of steroid induced players, advanced conditioning technology, and tighter stitched baseballs. Mantle's 565 ft. blast off of the Senators Chuck Stobbs still remains the furthest recorded ball ever hit in any baseball game, and it is no coincidence that The Mick also walloped two home runs off the façade of Yankee Stadium. This supernatural power is synonymous with Mantle's cardboard collectibles standing at the top of most post-war hobbyists want lists, and this 1956 Topps scripted offering is a grand testament to Mantle's legendary stature.

The brilliant blue ink autograph depicts solid "9" strength, with the card revealing "Good/VG" aesthetics. Notable flaws include obvious corner wear and a small area of paper loss on the verso. However, it is the majestic ink signature and eye pleasing central image aesthetics that steal the show, placing this cardboard masterpiece that was once held by the immortal Mantle as one of his foremost collectibles!

MIN BID $500
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