(LOT 293)
1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie PSA 5 EX
MID-GRADE MANTLE ROOKIE!!! The 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle Rookie truly stands as the most coveted post-WWII rookie card, presented here in a stellar PSA 5 holder. Considering the on-going pricing spikes for the Mick's '51 Bowman and '52 Topps issues, the current sale prices may soon become wholesale figures. No post-1950 card could better represent the strength of our hobby than Mantle's inaugural cardboard issue, treasured by most hobbyists who idolize the Mick and his unparalleled colossal round-trippers. The timeless bat-over-shoulder lithographic pose with Mickey's inaugural #6 uniform partly showing on his gray road flannels is magnificent, originally taken from an iconic photograph from Mantle's rookie season. The classic image reflects vibrant gray and blue tints, a bright sky-blue background, and rich facial hues, with the fine vertical centering slightly compromised by the illustration favoring the right edge. Preventing higher assessment are two faint vertical print lines, which is a common stigma for this issue, even corner wear and a modest gum stain on the verso. The lack of any obtrusive creasing is the final superlative for this true mid-grade Mickey Mantle rookie card that holds a special place in the hearts of collectors!

MIN BID $5,000
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