(LOT 695)
1951 Mickey Mantle "Rookie" Wearing his Original #6 Jersey! – ACME NEWSPICTURES Type I Photo – Measures Approx. 7" x 9" - PSA Type 1 Encapsulation
It is no secret that Mickey Mantle's 1951 Bowman baseball card stands as one of the hobby's foremost collectibles, with this inaugural Mantle card reflecting "The Mick" donning his original #6 uniform. Little did people realize that this powerful rookie from Commerce, Oklahoma would be embarking on one of the most iconic careers in our National Pastime's glorious history. Luckily for hobbyists, there are thousands of these cards to choose from, more than accommodating the collecting community for an opportunity to own a rookie-era Mantle baseball card. Unfortunately for photo enthusiasts, the prospect of owning a 1951 original rookie PHOTO of the legendary Mantle is virtually non-existent, with only a handful of Type I photos from his inaugural season available for the taking.

One such photo that actually represented his 1951 Rookie card image sold for a staggering $70k+ at auction several years ago, justifying the desirability to capture one of these seemingly ultra-rare 1951 Mantle images. With that in mind, it is our distinct pleasure to present this outstanding 1951 Mickey Mantle original "sliding" photo with the "Commerce Comet" donning his seldom seen #6 uniform number. Measuring approximately 7" x 9", it has been encapsulated as a PSA Type I illustration, with Mantle actually being thrown out at third in a May 17, 1951 game against the Cleveland Indians at Yankee Stadium. The back caption indicates that in the 1st inning, Mantle was on first base when Bobby Brown singled to centerfield. Unfortunately for the "Mick", he was trying to reach third against one of the most formidable throwing arms in baseball, as Hall of Famer Larry Doby threw a strike to third baseman Al Rosen to "cut down" Mantle.

Presenting itself in spectacular condition, it has stubbornly defied "Father-Time" by retaining virtually all of its original attributes, starting with the brilliant black & white action pose that immensely reveals Mantle's rookie #6 pinstripe jersey. Magnificent contrast, impeccable resolution, bright white borders and a gleaming surface complete the amazing obverse side that only reveals a few microscopic-like stray wrinkles. The verso has been covered by a large brown hued paper caption that reflects the details of Mantle's aggressive slide into third base. One of the most significant Mickey Mantle photos extant, it portrays this young budding superstar wearing his virtually never seen #6 rookie year jersey, immediately justifying its esteemed stature and rightful final resting place in any world-class compilation!

MIN BID $500
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