Graded 96 MINT 9 by SGC. Hall of Famer. This piece hails from its issue's scarcer run of "High Number" entries. This is one of just two examples at its tier (with none graded higher) among a total of 336 copies recorded in SGC's census reporting. This early Mays card is one of his most difficult collectibles to find in high grade. Not only is the 1953 Topps issue an extremely condition-sensitive set, but number 244 was released late in the season among the series' very elusive high numbers. (Fortunately, even though the slugger was serving a hitch in the armed forces in 1953, Topps still paid tribute to Willie with a baseball card). This is an exceptionally satisfying and very popular card, and it is free of printing faults common to the issue. Its artwork is unusually vibrant with incredibly intense color, and the image's centering is especially pleasing. The fragile black border at the card's lower right is completely uninterrupted, and its tremendous depth of original gloss is particularly apparent in this area. The corners are frighteningly sharp, revealing no discernible wear, and the back is clean and free of blemishes. This is absolutely one of the nicest 1953 Topps Willie Mays cards in the hobby, and it's worthy of inclusion in the most advanced collection. Mint condition.

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