The 1950s welcomed the young career of Mickey Mantle and Yankee fans now have the opportunity to purchase a game used bat used during the formative years of his career. Supported by factory records, this bat was ordered by Mickey Mantle four times over the course of 10 years. For those collectors searching for a 1950’s example for their collection, please consider the following:
Dating 1950-60: Based on the production methods and design of the Louisville Slugger centerbrand, this bat dates to the 1950-60 timespan.
Model K55: Per Mickey Mantle’s personal H&B factory records, it is verified he ordered the K55 model bats during 1950, 1953, 1955, and 1960.
Length 35”: Per Mickey Mantle’s personal H&B factory records, it is verified Mantle ordered the K55 model bat at the 35” length during 1950, 1953, 1955, and 1960.
Weight 32.6 ounces: At its current weight, which may have ranged from 32 to 34 ounces at the time of production (1950-60), his K55 model measuring 35” was ordered within this weight range of 32 to 34 ounces during 1950 (34 ounces), 1953 (33 ounces), and 1960 (34 ounces).
Game Use: The bat shows heavy game use with ball marks and swelling on all sides. Upon examination, the area specifically above and below the facsimile barrel signature shows signs of deadwood. Deadwood is the phenomenon of repeated contact of bat to ball, which often results in the loosening of the grain in those areas. Deadwood is often associated with power hitters. The amount of game use or deadwood is about equal above and below the barrel signature, which would be consistent with use by a switch hitter.
Whether due to improper storage, stress to the area, or reasons unknown, the deadwood became severely separated and has been expertly repaired in both the above and below areas of the barrel facsimile signature. Furthermore, an area between the Powerized and facsimile signature has also been professionally repaired to remove markings. The bat is now restored to its original condition.
Approximately 12 cleat marks are scattered near the end of the barrel. The bat remains uncracked.
Final Grade MEARS A8. With support of the factory records with respect to model (K55), length (35”), and weight (32.6 ounces), this bat was awarded 5 base points. Even with the professional restoration, the bat still exhibits signs of heavy game use, and was awarded 3 game use points. In its restored condition, with no handle cracks or other negative traits, there were no additional points subtracted, maintaining the bats A8 grade.
Overall, this bat dates from the early stages of Mantle’s career, factory recorded with respects to model, length, and weight, and shows heavy game use consistent with a switch hitter.
Professional authentication & grading Letter of Opinion provided by MEARS/Troy R. Kinunen
c2562
(MEARS LOA)