1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle Rookie Card - PSA VG-EX 4

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/30/2016

Graded VG-EX 4 by PSA. Hall of Famer, in his debut-year appearance on Topps gum cards. An exceptional example of a perennially hungered-for collectible is presented. Here is a '52 Topps Mantle card that has been admired, handled and enjoyed. One can easily picture this brightly colored Yankees treasure arriving at a New York area playground, late in the 1952 baseball season, drawing envious glances from all to whom it was shown. It's been thoroughly established that there are far fewer 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle cards in existence than would be needed to satisfy even a large fraction of the hobbyists who wish to own one. A few of the industry's extant copies are such phenomenally beautiful survivors that most enthusiasts would need to choose between a run at obtaining one, and owning a home. At the other end of the spectrum, some specimens are damaged almost beyond recognition ... yet still holding irresistible appeal to a certain segment of the market. The offered piece, though, strikes a harmonious balance between these extremes, and lands directly in the "sweet spot" of many set-builders' and star collectors' aspirations. This '52 Mantle example reveals "liabilities" that inhibit lofty grading assessments (and stratospheric price levels) while retaining all of the charisma, eye appeal and physical properties that comprise the entry's desirability. The piece concedes mild doses of honest and uniform wear at the edges and corners, but projects clean, white borders. The obverse discloses superficial touches of abrasion, but its image continues to radiate bright hues and an alluring presentation, in general. The illustration is situated in a slightly rightward orientation which, instead of acting as a discordant feature, appears wholly natural on this emotionally fulfilling Mantle card. The item's reverse is strongly printed, with every feature crisp and fully legible. In many important respects, this is truly an "ideal" Topps Mickey Mantle rookie card. Very Good to Excellent condition.