(LOT 294)
1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie PSA 2 Good
MICK ROOKIE!!! Over the past decade or more, iconic cards have driven interest and gained notoriety for our hobby, starting with the famed T206 Honus Wagner but ultimately eclipsed by the 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle, the industry's priciest card. And though the 1916 M101 Ruth Rookie has also garnered considerable attention and will continue to do so, Mickey Mantle holds the top spot as the hobby's most significant issue. In 1951, the rookie outfielder burst onto the scene in the Bronx, and Bowman was the only game in town, so the '51 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle should be considered as The Mick's inaugural issue, as many hobbyists would agree. And no matter the grade, it remains one of the most sought-after issues of ANY ballplayer.

Mantle was one of the top five greatest players to ever don the pinstripes, not to mention one of the greatest ballplayers the game has ever seen. Over his 18-year career, the Commerce Comet blasted 536 home runs, led the AL four times, amassed 2,415 hits, 1,676 runs and drove in 1,509 RBIs. He holds three American League MVP awards and finished second in MVP voting three times. Truly exceptional!

The offered 1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie graded 2 GOOD from PSA is appealing all the way around. With excellent color and clarity, spectacular centering and a crystal-clear back, this PSA 2 shines. Save for the corner touches and minimal soiling around the borders, it makes you wonder why this wasn't assessed higher. Also present is a minute wrinkle at the upper left center, stretching slightly into his cap. Regardless of the minor imperfections on this rookie card of one of the best ever, this Mickey Mantle Rookie is one to own!

MIN BID $4,000
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