This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/6/2021
Many within the general public can positively identify the 1952 Topps card of Mickey Mantle but when it comes to the 1951 Bowman issue, his true rookie card, most non-collectors are unaware of its existence. Clearly, it does not enjoy the level of pomp and circumstance granted the '52 Topps card, but the '51 Bowman rookie is nonetheless every bit as important, if not more so. As with both cards, each step up the PSA grading scale takes a huge leap in value and defines the strength of any advanced collection. While recent popularity has seen the upper-grade specimens increase exponentially in price, mid-grade examples are still within reach for many collectors, for now. The featured card is a respectable PSA 5 with slight endpoints commensurate with the grade and tolerable positioning toward the right horizontal edge. The iconic central image of Mantle provides plenty of deep colors and a clean presentation, brighter and fresher than most at this grade level, while the reverse offers a striking contrast of the deep blue inked bio set against the stark gray stock. An admirable example of this exceptionally popular rookie card of hobby icon Mickey Mantle.