(LOT 1660)
1961 Topps #300 Signed Mickey Mantle PSA 6 EX-MT; AUTO 8 NM-MT - Only One Graded Higher!
Recently graded and authenticated by PSA, this magnificent autographed 1961 Topps #300 Mickey Mantle subject has been awarded an ultra-rare "6 EX-MT" assessment, with the neatly scripted black pen signature grading an "8 NM-MT." Of the 50+ examples authenticated by PSA, only three specimens have managed to achieve a higher card assessment, substantiating the utmost "rare for the grade" stature this cardboard treasure truly offers. Furthermore, after scouring this card, we are literally scratching our heads as to why the card didn't grade at a Near-Mint level or higher. Brilliant image resolution, vibrant hues, right-angled corners, relatively clean surfaces and virtually impossible near-perfect centering all combine to question the rather strict technical assessment. Yet, regardless of the ultimate grade, any autographed Mantle card dating 60 years or older with an EX-MT assessment is a truly remarkable find, especially when it was issued during the storybook 1961 campaign when the "M & M" boys went "toe-to-toe" for literally the entire season in their quest to surpass Babe Ruth's magical 60-homer mark. While Mantle fell somewhat short of the Babe's record due to a severe September injury, the iconic '61 season is forever etched in stone, and we cannot imagine a finer heirloom to conjure up its glorious memories than this extraordinary signed Topps Mantle marvel!
MIN BID $1,000
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