This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/12/2021
If we could travel back in time to 1952 and try to explain today's financial boom of the baseball card industry to the locals, they'd likely think you were crazy. Sure, tell them, "Keep buying those Topps cards, I know the season's just about over but those are the high numbers, they're going to be worth a fortune one day. Even better, just buy the boxes and put them away. Don't even open the packs. But if you do, the best card in the group is that new kid for the Yankees, Mantle. It could be worth millions!" Once the out-of-control laughter subsided, they'd thank you for the funny joke and go on their way. But here we are, and this is now the 85th auction of a 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle card at Mile High Card Company since 2007. If you haven't noticed (and I'm sure you have), the grading standards haven't changed as written but seem to be getting more and more stringent with time. This PSA 2 specimen is a perfect example of that, not without its flaws of course but a seemingly stronger card than the grade of PSA 2 would suggest. The deep aqua backdrop shows some lighter print dust scattered on the surface but still retains a boldness that often fades over time, even on much higher graded examples, and the flesh tones in the young superstar's face and hands lend a three-dimensional appearance. Each of the four corners shows some wear but not even close to the extent that one would expect for such a modest grade. The reverse offers a surprisingly clean slate gray canvas that compares favorably with others that are several grades higher. There are no apparent stains or other significant liabilities. This is a very admirable example for the grade and a savvy investment for the advanced collector who has finally committed to going after this hobby icon!