(LOT 28)
1951 Bowman #253 Mickey Mantle Rookie PSA 3 VG
MANTLE ROOKIE!!! Recently graded by PSA and fresh to the hobby, this 3 VG 1951 Bowman Mickey Mantle Rookie truly stands as the most coveted post-WWII baseball rookie card. Considering the on-going pricing spikes for The Mick's '51 Bowman and '52 Topps issues, current pricing 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-sized round trippers.

The timeless bat-over-shoulder lithographic pose with Mickey's inaugural #6 uniform partly showing on his gray road flannels is outstanding, originally taken from an iconic photograph from Mantle's rookie campaign. The classic image reflects vibrant gray and blue tints, a bright sky-blue background, and rich facial hues, eluding any of the typically encountered vertical print lines. While the image does significantly favor the upper right edges (most Mantle Rookies reveal skewed images), the brilliant central image aesthetics supersede the off-positioning. The Mickey Mantle rookie card holds a special place in the hearts of collectors, and this newly discovered example would make a fine addition to any esteemed Commerce Comet or rookie card gathering!

MIN BID $2,500
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