This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2015
Mickey Mantle immediately established himself as a major league player as soon as he joined the team in 1951. Mantle was first elected to the All Star game in 1952. His offensive power exploded, and he became the 1956 and 1957 American League MVP while winning the Triple Crown during the magical 1956 season.
Whether it is a baseball card or a signed baseball, Mantle remains the cornerstone to any collection. For those seeking to move into the world of game used equipment, this bat affords the beginning collector that opportunity. The bat has been carefully examined by MEARS and the following facts supporting professional issuance to Mantle include:
Dating Period: Examination of the center brand determines this bat was manufactured by Louisville Slugger between 1953-60.
Length 35’: Per the review of Mickey Mantle’s personal bat records, he ordered bats measuring 35”
in length throughout the 1953-60 era.
Weight 33 ounces: Currently weighing 33 ounces, Mantle’s personal bat records verify he ordered bats weighing 30-34 ounces during the referenced label period. This bat is consistent with those orders.
Model K55: During the 1953, 1955, and 1960 season Mickey Mantle ordered the K55 model and this fact is documented via his personal H&B bat records.
Game Use: Bat exhibits heavy game use. Ball marks can be found both above and below the facsimile Mantle signature. Deep lace marks are also found on the barrel end. In the area above the barrel end and the reverse of the barrel is deadwood, the result of repeated contact of bat to ball. The handle remains uncracked.
Condition Notes: Review of the bat shows 3 or 4 deeper marks on the front of the barrel (small gouges) that are not typically associated with bats bearing major league use. A small hole is also found in the upper right area of the barrel. The deadwood is lifting and appears to have been re-glued at some point. There is a small chip to the edge of the knob along with some wear to the bottom of the knob. These noted points of use appear to have applied after the bat was issued to Mantle.
Final Grade MEARS A6: A base grade of 5 points was assigned due to the fact the bat matches Mantle’s personal bat records. 3 points were assigned for heavy game use on both sides of the barrel (consistent with Mantle). Minus 2 points were subtracted for wear to the knob and barrel.
Even though the grading of the bat addressed the additional wear found on the barrel and knob, this lot offers collectors the opportunity to purchase a very rare bat from the pinnacle of Mickey Mantle’s career. Supported by factory records, one lucky collector can take comfort in the fact the bat was ordered and shipped to Mickey Mantle while a member of the New York Yankees.