Here's a bit of a before and after Mantle scenario for your perusal.

I bought the 1968 card on the left, because the stain was simply gum or wax residue (in front of his nose and mouth) that I knew could be easily removed with pantyhose if the occasion ever presented itself, so it was worth the price. Fast forward to Bobby's group sub, and I cracked it out and wiped away the schmutz...and it (card on the right) came back a straight PSA 7...

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Chris, I have had the batting one for a while. Just got the kneeling. I bid for a raw one that was postmarked three or four years ago on eBay but I ended up an under bidder. I believe Dave Thorn won it and graded it for his auction.
The price was nuts that he got for it, so luckily I was able to get one at a good price.

Nice bump Jollyelm.

Ben, Are you sure those are authentic? They're both missing the pin holes. :D

Like Chris, I only have the kneeling one. Mine is post marked (Aug. 15, 1969). Mine also has a pin hole. :(

I feel like most of my oddball Mick's have pinholes, tape, tears, and missing or dinged corners :) Lucked out with these Country Cookin postcards I guess.

I joined Net54 about two and a half years ago after I began building my mid-grade 1952 Bowman set. I found this thread at that time and was looking forward to the day when I had something to contribute to it.

Last week I finally pulled the trigger and picked up that Mantle.

Not only does this fill a gigantic hole in my set, but this is my FIRST Mantle card in my collection. Happy to finally have it.

Attachment 407375

Great card. Congratulations on the pickup!

All of his '50s Topps cards together from my collection:

https://i.imgur.com/yHunmVZ.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/AowzaSe.jpg

I had to look at that picture several times to figure out what was going on. I thought you had a jumbo 52 Topps for a second. Nice run. You should consider a 1954 SI Topps to fill in the gaps a little!

I thought about that (especially since I have the '55 Bowman), but probably won't bother filling out the '50s unless I get his '51 Bowman, which I've just lost interest in pursuing lately.

Had to use my old pic of the '52T since it's now in a safe deposit box, so that made it a jumbo compared to the rest. Maybe I should market it as a new variation that's 1 of 1 :cool:

Haha, you should. If you want to trade for a regular size one I might be willing to trade in your favor and give you my PSA 1 straight up for that one :). 51 Bowman is boring so I don’t blame you.

I get the feeling in terms of price this card is getting ready to pull away from the dock, so to speak. Nothing you haven’t seen a million times before, but I was particularly pleased with the centering on this one. This is a long awaited upgrade to my SGC A, which for sentimentality reasons I cannot bear to part with.

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I am going through a box of misc. stuff I have accumulated over the years, and I have come across this Mickey Mantle YOO-HOO bottle cap. Is this a vintage bottle cap? What year is it from? I checked eBay, but didn't find a Mantle, and all the 1959 bottle caps I see for other players are of a different style in that YOO HOO appears above the player's head, rather than below the player's image. Many thanks in advance for any help with this bottle cap.

That seems to be 1958, the rarer yellow version.

Many thanks, Chris!

Great centering on this one! It presents very nicely.


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That’s a sharp card!


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Picked up a cool premium team photo of a young Mick. 1951 M114.

Nice pickup. I was tempted to put a bid in. I think you got a great deal on this one.

Wanted this one a long time

A "side" pick up of a 30 year search!!
 

You can read the full story in 1 of the 2 threads I posted in if you are interested:

Here:

https://www.net54baseball.com/showthread.php?t=286980

or here:

https://www.net54baseball.com/showth...249493&page=24

This is the only known 1960 Mantle Bazooka complete box. I have searched for the Clemente box for 30 years and just picked up both!!!

WOW....Awesome pickup Howard.

Congrats howard!!!
 

CONGRATS HOWARD!!!

Now what's your NEXT White Whale?

Fred

Hmmm.
 

I have been wishing for this one for so long, I'm not sure that there is anything I know of that could take its place.......There are 2 items that may/may not exist that could be the new whales - 1962 Jello Clemente complete box or 1962 Post Canadian complete box with Clemente. I have never seen either one (I have seen other players in box form for both issues)

While either of them would be incredible finds, I think this Bazooka box will forever be the Jewel in the crown of my Clemente collection. For those who know my collection - that says a lot!

My biggest regret to this day is not picking up a 56 Mantle PSA 4 that, imo, could have easily passed for a 5-6. The seller even held it for me for 2-3 months but I just couldn't commit due to the cost in U.S. funds back then as I was debated if I would be better off purchasing more 52 Topps cards.

Mickey
 

A few that haven't been shown
Post tens package
And old london diosy doodle bag with mantle coin pictured

How about a 62 Post Cereal Alpha Bits Individual box with Clemente's card on the back? I know where one is! :)

Yeah....but
 

That box is nowhere near as appealing to me as the thought of a 62 Jello or 62 Post Canadian and not even in the conversation with the Bazooka box.

Well, Howard, at least Fred was kind enough to make you aware of a single-serving Post Cereal Koufax box. You are correct, of course, about the possibility of a 1962 JELL-O box with Roberto being the far greater catch. I don't recall if the early 80's find of '62 JELL-O unfolded boxes included one of Mr. Clemente. I will search the scan I have from David Kathman----YES, Lew Lipset's 1985 SCD ad shows a 1962 JELL-O unfolded Strawberry box with #173 Clemente as the free prize. Mr. Lipset wanted $235 at the time. For reference, he wanted $250 for Henry Aaron.

Since the ad was from 35 years ago, it would be difficult, to say the least, to track down what's become of that blue diamond Roberto Clemente. Ah, forget about it, bro; bask in your happiness of now owning those regal rare Clemente and Mantle 1960 Bazooka boxes. They are special, to be sure, and I'm sure happy for you, bro.

--- Brian Powell

Thanks Brian!
 

That's an awesome starting point on the 62 Jello box! More than I had to go on for the Bazookas. There is a whole back stroy to the Clemente Alpha bits box that Fred has.

Brian if you would be so kind to send me the scan of the Lipset Ad that would be awesome (hcv123@att.net).

I hope no one decided to cut it along the way to try to get a "10"!

Very nice. Congrats!!

It will take some open time for my son, Howard, but I would be glad to send you a scan of that mouth-drooling advertisement.

Unless the purchaser was a blithering idiot, I would have to think he chose to keep the 1 of 1 1962 JELL-O Clemente unfolded box perfectly intact.

As you rightly responded to my suggestion of having PSA holder your Bazooka boxes, sometimes PSA displays a "what were they thinking??!!??" gross ineptitude in evaluating, grading, AND encapsulating extremely rare and choice gem pieces as Bazooka boxes!

Back in 2008, when I had begun my hobby journalistic journey towards what became my book, I first looked to PSA to grade my Sports Collectors Digest and eventual Never Cheaper By the Dozen cover cards. I called PSA first, but they said they couldn't grade neither my 1962 Apple JELL-O Mickey Mantle unfolded box, nor my 1960 Post Cereal Mick. They would grade my 1954 Stahl-Meyer Franks Mickey Mantle, however. I was in a hurry to make SCD's deadline. So, at the 2008 National in Chicago, Sportscard Guaranty Co. evaluated all 3 items for me. It was costly, but it was worth it, and they did a super job; the cards all looked profoundly beautiful in the SGC holders. I was very, very pleased.:D

Sorry to wax lyrical but it's a happy memory. Anyways, I will try to get my son's help ASAP, Howard. I don't know if Mr. Lipset is alive to breathe a few words of help to you. The last I knew he resided in Arizona.

All the best to you, sir. -- Brian Powell

Mantle Addition
 

Find myself referring to this thread about once a week, always enjoy seeing fellow 54`ers newest additions. Haven`t added anything to it for some time but did acquire this 1953 Stahl Meyer from another 54`er this week, thanks for working with me Dan Mc. Keep them coming boys, never enough of the Mick !
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...4ede7c19_z.jpgUntitled by Hugh Murphy, on Flickr

Murph, I am so happy for you, bro! Wow, what a gorgeous Mantle! Honestly, I fail to grasp why SGC would not give this beauty a numerical grade. Regardless, it has been loved, of course, but the heart of this card, Mickey's perfect smiling face is magnificent! You bought my book, so you know the history and the lore of this baby. You did right well, my friend. I would have loved to have been in the room when you opened up your package, to see your face. I know mine put me on a cardboard cloud 9, from whence I've never come down. The only other card that did that for me was the 1952 Topps Mickey. Thanks for sharing your joy with us!:D I know you'll be having a great weekend! You look at that card, and you're a kid again.

The continued best to you, buddy. With this prized piece, Mr. Murphy, you've REALLY "escaped the ordinary"!--- Brian Powell

That is a FANTASTIC example of that Mick. Exactly my kinda card. Great get bro.

Monster card and super clean image.

Thank you sir!

The official Mickey Mantle Pickup Thread. All Mick, all the time!
 

Picked this up at the LCS yesterday. Again, nothing you haven't seen before - but for a raw card I'm very happy. Decent centering, 5-6 range corners, and most importantly fire engine red - and very clean print. Mick at age 27 looks slightly amused...

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Story Time:

Ever since I discovered the set, I immediately fell in love with Mickey Mantle's card from Berk Ross. It presented as a beautiful card, at a pretty good price point for a Mantle from 1952. I've been on the hunt for one for quite some time. I missed out on one earlier in the year due to lack of funds at the time, so I made sure to secure one this time around. The iciing on the cake is that it's in good condition and it's raw. While a part of me is tempted to slab it to see the grade, something about a raw card is just so damn appealing! Serious thanks to Charlietheexterminator for answering all of my questions, I think we exchanged close to 30 emails! I'm very happy with this new purchase, and a new centerpiece to my collection

https://i.imgur.com/fPZ9bdC.png
https://i.imgur.com/IvOglZr.png

Nice grab there James beautiful example and one to enjoy for a long time Sir. Never enough Mick, congrats on your great addition!

stocking up to be graded 'when the dust settles':


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last one this year...and a few modern Mantles:

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So whats the sentiment/opinion on this mantle holiday inn card? This one at right sold not long ago in heritage. Otherwise I mainly see postcard sized holiday inn cards...not typical card sized ones like this and mine.

Does anyone know anything about these?

I recently picked this one up.

Does anyone know if SGC/PSA grades them???

Here is a link to what PSA grades- maybe it helps
https://www.psacard.com/psasetregist...gegallery/4144

I picked up a "new" Mickey item off of the board's B/S/T.

New Former Mantle Card Collector
 

After years of board membership, this is my first visit and contribution to the post-war cards forum. Like all of you, my interest and enthusiasm in most things Mantle is what drew me here, but perhaps a little bit of an introduction is in order…

My name is Jonathan and I’ve been collecting vintage equipment and ephemera...mostly from the 19th Century…for just about 30 years now. I’m 43 years old, so yes…I’ve had the collecting bug since I was about 12 years old. I’ve written two books on vintage equipment (www.dugouttreasures.com), am a docent at the Yogi Berra Museum and Learning Center, and am a member of SABR’s 19th Century Committee having presented research at the past 4 conferences in Cooperstown. While vintage equipment and related memorabilia has always been my primary collecting focus, I’ve also maintained a long-term passion for items associated with the NY Yankees of the 1950s…particularly, the Mick.

Over the years, when I picked up gloves and bats endorsed by Yankee players…Mantle, Rizzuto, Berra, Ford, Martin, etc…I always tried to match them with whatever cards I could afford at the time. My small vintage card collection would in turn be augmented by gifts from my parents for things like birthdays and graduations. By the time I began moving away from cards in pursuit of vintage equipment, I had stashed away many examples of the afore mentioned players, including a handful of Mantles.

Fast forward about 28 or so years to present day and the onset of the pandemic…

I don’t know how many of you initiated a COVID project but, somehow, I got it in my head that I would re-visit the card side of the hobby and look to piece together a complete set of Mantle bubble gum cards.

I started with a nucleus of about 10 Topps cards to include the 1956, all three variations in the 1958 set, a 1961, 1966, 1967, and few set extras such as All-Star cards. So you know, none of these cards were graded and all of them, except for the 1956 example, had been acquired in the 1990s.

So, in June, I began adding as many different ones as I could on a pretty tight budget. I simply set out to acquire attractive (in the eye of the beholder, of course), collector grade examples of each Bowman and Topps card. I wasn’t (and am not) averse to some rounded corners, wrinkles, some discoloration, and even a chip, tear, tape, or pin hole that didn’t affect the Mantle image. I don’t think I had, or picked up anything, that would grade out above a 5 at most.

When it came time to add the more desirable and pricey examples…in this case, the ’52 Bowman and ’53 Topps…I did seek out graded/encapsulated examples in conditions that I could live with. In the case of the '53 Topps, its Authentic for a small, but missing corner. The '52 Bowman is a PSA 4 (MK) with some pen on the reverse.

Like I said, none of what I’ve been looking for has been investment grade…just wanted nice looking cards I could take out and enjoy with my 12-year-old son.

At this time, I have examples…predominately raw…of all but two cards. For the sake of accuracy, I did not go after team cards or checklist cards. Oh, and in case you’re wondering, the two cards I’m short are ones that don’t quite fit into my budget…the ’51 Bowman and ’52 Topps. That said, I really am determined to add them at some point as I can’t leave my kids an incomplete Pandemic Mantle Set.

As this is an “all things Mantle” thread, I will also add some pics of my other Mantle related items in a subsequent post.

But, for now, here is what my humble card collection amounts to at this time. If you want to actually see any of them, just let me know…it'll give me a reason to take them out again!

I really have enjoyed looking at all of your outstanding Mantle cards/items, and am more motivated than ever to try (and I emphasize, try) and stay on the hunt for those last two cards.

Well, I hope everyone stays safe and healthy as I look forward to many more of your Mantle-centric posts.

Best,

Jon
www.dugouttreasures.com

As promised in the post above, here are some of my other Mantle related items...

Jonathan
www.dugouttreasures.com

thank u...looks like a NO!!!!

David M. --- I love your 1962 Salada Mickey Mantle coin. I very well remember the first time I laid eyes on one in the spring of 1970. It was love at first sight. My friend gave it to me. Guess it did not mean that much to him, but it sure meant a lot to me, and I thanked him profusely. I think I still have it, though was able to buy the complete set several years later, or at least as complete as it was known in 1973, and in so doing upgraded the first Mantle I got. I never tire of looking at that gorgeous coin. Nice picture of our Mr. Mantle. Thanks again for sharing your joy, David. Happy collecting, bro. --- Brian Powell

John,

Those are some great looking Mantles. I love the 52 Bowman and 53 Topps especially. Both are on my list to pickup over the next few years. COVID brought back so many people to the Hobby, myself included. It was a blessing, and a curse with the amount that Vintage has gone through the roof. Regardless, I think most of us that came back to vintage at least, are in it for the long haul. Fantastic collection centered around the Mick!

- James

Jonathan----You have a nice collection going there with Mick's fine gum cards. I sure wish you the best, bro. I like your mitts, too. Finally, welcome back to the immediate post-war collecting. Glad to have you back, bro!!!!!! ;) Sounds like the 19th century cadre incurred a huge loss with your decision to return to our era. Wishing you the very best, and hope you're able to enjoy the hobby with your 12-year old son. That's terrific!

IF you and your son enjoy reading, a few years ago I wrote an E-book on a CD about the immediate post-war niche of collecting regional / food issues. Mr. Mantle is featured in a few chapters. As I so enjoyed your post, I would be happy to send you a complimentary copy. By some small chance, perhaps your son might find it amusing, even interesting. Simply send me your mailing address, Jonathan. You can reach me here or at my email address: bfpowell2003@yahoo.com. Understand, you will need a disk drive on your computer or laptop to read it. Just a friendly offer, bro; no strings attached.:) Have a swell day. --- Brian Powell

This is my first solo Mantle. I've had a couple of League Leader/Home Run/World Series type cards. But this is the first one of ONLY Mantle.

I went to DFW this weekend to do some Christmas shopping. I stopped into SMP because I had some bonus money to blow, and I hadn't opened anything in a long, long time.

I was eyeing some 2020 Topps Chrome for around $225/box because I like the brand and the look of the cards. But then I saw this in the case for $25 less. I know it was probably a big mistake passing up the Topps Chrome hobby box because it probably had a $1k card in it.

But I'm happy with the purchase.

https://i.imgur.com/omSfk72.jpg?1

You made a wise choice...you can't go wrong with a Mantle! And that's a beautiful '4'!

Congratulations!!



.

Recently picked up the following items:

A Rawlings Mantle Fleetfoot baseball shoe box with Fleetfoot cleats. (I'm thinking if I cut my toes off I might be able to jam my feet into the cleats.)

Unopened Yoo-Hoo syrup bottle. (Now to refrain from opening it up to revel in the 60 year old chocolatey goodness inside.)

Brian, it's great when something you post gets such a nice reaction. I'm glad it brought back such great memories for you! I've had the 1963 Salada Mantle for years but had always needed the 1963 version for completion. When it popped up on the B/S/T board, I didn't hesitate to grab it.

NEVER say 'last one this year' - like I did on 12/09.

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Sweet pickups Mike! Love the Yoo-hoo! I don't think i have ever seen one of that cap variety still on the bottle. Awesome!

Been a long while since last contribution here; wanted to share progress on the new Mantle passion that consumed my 2020— a signed run. Been trying to put great care into the selection of each piece, focusing on overall eye appeal.

What I love about signed vintage is how each piece is unique, based on the card someone brought to him that day, the pen used, where he signed on the card. All that and also how low the pop data is for each piece, it forces a collector to make sacrifices on certain attributes, compared to shopping for an unsigned card.

Hope my fellow Mantle collectors will enjoy...

The last photo is the best centered White Letter I've come across, so wanted to share that, too. All of us Mantle guys know how tough that one is.

Been re-reading The Last Boy over the holiday; great and moving read.

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Unbelievable collection! :)

Congrats.

Outstanding! You definitely have a great eye!


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Those Mics are amazing, if you twist my arm the 53 and 54 Bowman just pop for my eyes! Great collection!

Dear Lord, that is impressive. Amazing project, and incredible progress!

Cheap, but cool-looking restaurant-opening promo:

Attachment 432921

Matt, those are extremely enjoyable to see. Especially the early auto on the '52 Bowman. Exceptional auto collection.

Thanks Ben. Also, congratulations on your Top 10 ranking! If you ever want to drop a few positions and sell me some of your stuff, let me know. :D

Looks like I missed a few items from mid July to early August.

Nice 51 Yankees M114 Ben.

Love the '52 Tip Top, Jim. That's on my wantlist.

Howard, that's a great Bazooka box! Another item on my wantlist.

Larry, love the Dipsy Doodle bag. Haven't heard of that before. Also love the Post 10 box. That is yet another item on my wantlist.

Just picked this one up. I realize it’s nothing you all haven’t seen before, but I’m pretty pleased with the overall appearance for a 5. I would’ve like centering a little better, but given the corners and registration, I’m pretty darn happy with it.

Just came across this thread. Very cool items, lots of stuff I haven't seen before. Thanks all for sharing!

I'll post a few of mine, starting with these Bowmans. My Uncle started buying Mantles in the 1980s. He bought most raw and then submitted to PSA probably 15 years ago.

When he passed away I bought the collection from my Aunt in 2017, so not technically new pickups, but still worth sharing.

My Uncle kept great records. Just for fun, here are the dates/prices he paid. I think at the time all these were raw.

1952 Mantle bought in 1987 for $250

1953 Mantle bought in 1988 for $700 ($150 cash and then a 1954 Topps Ted Williams he valued at $450 and a 1955 Williams he valued at $100)

1954 Mantle bought in 1986 for $140

1955 Mantle bought in 1986 for $60

Let me know what you think the best deal has been.

What I'd give for prices like these!

https://i.imgur.com/PnV6fZ8h.jpg

A couple more, all picked up in the past few months. A few came from forum members, Thanks!

The 1959 is new for me, the other three were upgrades of cards I already had.

https://i.imgur.com/xSGQ4tDh.jpg

Looks like the PSA 1 1961 Topps Dice Game is coming up for auction through Heritage next month. Will be interesting what it brings at this time in our hobby.

Nice 51 mantle.

A somewhat cheapie Mantle, but I still like it. :)

https://caimages.collectors.com/psai...ortsMantle.jpg

Every once in a while you really have to sit back and admire your collection. Even if it's small in comparison to some others here on the board :D. 59 is the most recent addition! One step closer to my goal!

https://i.imgur.com/LFsRqaR.jpg?1

Good question. I've had one for years sitting in my album, no idea what it is worth, if anything. I did recently pick up this one:

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/WqUAA...rv/s-l1600.jpg

1954 All Star Photo Pack. I've got it listed for sale on eBay but will also consider a trade for a 1952 Topps Mays.

Here are two very recent Mick pick-ups...
1. 1956 Topps Gray Back...raw, of course :)
2. c.1950s Louisville Slugger Mantle model bat

www.dugouttreasures.com

So far my only Mantle, but I got my eye on one or two more:

https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...e57c624e_c.jpg

Mantle
 

That`s a hell of a nice looking "53" Sir, awesome eye appeal and something I`d really like to have in my collection. Haven`t added anything for a while until recently. Picked up this "52" Berk Ross (sorry for the lousy pics) Mick from a fellow board member, thanx again Dan. Kind of a poor man`s 51 Bowman, which has left the dock for small fries like me, but I enjoy it. Keep them coming guys never enough Mantle.
https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/...8242a078_c.jpgUntitled by Hugh Murphy, on Flickr

March Mantle's
 

After acquiring a number of lower grade/raw Mantle's over the past year, I am now SLOWLY looking to improve on some of them. Prices are keeping me in the 2-4 range, but I'm making progress.

Jon
www.dugouttreasures.com

Nice additions Jonathan, that Bowman is exceptional and should be a keeper for years to come. Really great examples for any Mantle collection, enjoy those Sir .

1952 Topps
 

Love the celerity of this copy. Clear sky...no snow.