Offered is a signature model R43 that was first shipped to Gil on 7-8-54 and ordered through 1960. It measures 35" and weighs 32.9 oz. The bat has seen heavy game use with an expertly restored handle crack, deep lace and ball marks on all four sides of the barrel, cleat marks all about the end of the bat with perfect factory stamps and a nice original finish. It grades a MEARS A8 with 5 base points and 3 use points and of the three examples that MEARS has examined, this is the second highest grade.
Mantle and McDougald joined the Yankees the same season, 1951, but it was McDougald that was voted the "Rookie of the Year" batting .306 with 14 home runs. McDougald was with the Yankees from 1951-60 and was a key member of all the great 1950's teams.