(LOT 888)
1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays Rookie PSA 4 VG-EX
WILLIE ROOKIE!!! On May 28th, 1951, Willie Mays collected his first hit in the Major Leagues - a solo home run off future Hall of Famer Warren Spahn. Not even Giants manager Leo Durocher, his most ardent supporter, could have envisioned the 20-year-old would clout 659 more over the course of his 23-year career. In 1951, Willie Mays ran away with the National League Rookie of the Year Award, batting .274 with 127 hits, including 20 homers and driving in 68 runs in 121 games. His .976 fielding percentage in center field as a rookie was exceptional, as were the 13 assists he produced from center that year. Offered is his 1951 Bowman #305 Willie Mays rookie card graded 4 VG-EX by PSA. This Rookie, of arguably the greatest five-tool player in history, is key to the 1951 Bowman release, along with fellow New York star rookie Mickey Mantle. This VG-EX card features pleasing colors and clear intensity from the rookie Giant. Good centering with slight favoritism to the upper right corner with the edging displaying light flaking across the upper border. The back remains in exceptional condition with only the faintest of wrapper-wax tracing at the bottom. This is one of the most significant and one of the most coveted Rookie issues in the hobby, featuring one of the greatest players in MLB history.

MIN BID $3,500
_