This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/22/2010
Featured in this lot is a near perfectly centered example of Willie Mays' popular 1953 Topps high-number issue that has been recently assessed at the NM/MT 8 level by the old cardboard specialists at SGC. Impressive NM/MT+ to MINT corners join rough-cut NM/MT edges around a positively breathtaking image of the up and coming New York Giants centerfielder. While not perfect, the depiction of the fabulous Mr. Willie Mays boasts a delightfully accurate image registration for the issue as well as an impressively clean surface, almost entirely devoid of any extraneous print both in the green grass of the backdrop and in Willie's image itself. Perfectly characteristic of the issue, however, we encounter a light spattering of microscopic print dust in the blue sky at the top of the obverse, hardly perceptible to the naked eye and obviously still well within the parameters of the NM/MT opinion from SGC. The reverse, on the other hand, appears to border on perfection, with bold, blemish-free black and red print throughout, and just a touch of uniform wear along the susceptible full-bleed top edge. One of just 6 examples in its grade from SGC, with just one higher on record in the MINT 9 class, the offered copy unquestionably approaches that lone superior in virtually every scrutable facet except for its NM/MT rough-cut edges, which lend the card an undeniable pack-fresh appearance, propped by an intense, ice-like coating of smooth, even gloss. As Willie's star continues to rise and expand with each new fan who learns of his unparalleled accomplishments, this is one card you'll be happy to own when he inevitably claims the thrown as the single greatest player of the Golden Age of baseball, and arguably of all time!