This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/15/2014
Of the over 2,500 1953 Topps Mickey Mantle cards that have been graded by PSA, the offered card is trumped by just 11 others. Any knowledgeable collector would expect PSA to be extremely guarded about attaching such a lofty grade to as high profile a card as this, but the sheer superiority of this beauty had to make the decision much easier for the folks in California. And with Mantle's 1952 Topps card taking its place as the undisputed king of post-war pasteboard productions, it would be easy to overlook the importance of his sophomore appearance, though many collectors actually prefer the presentation of Mantle on this card, displaying an artistic over the shoulder glance back with robust blue Yankees cap and red nameplate intermingling with the facial tones and white uniform. The centering is close to dead accurate while the corners and edges place solidly at the NM/MT level. The reverse is just as impressive; a spot-free surface with clean black and red colors. A triumphant example of one of Mickey's most beloved cards offered in outstanding, exceptionally strong NM/MT condition.