Opinions on this Mantle signature please

[budob]

Jeff and I have had this signed card in our collection for 20+ years but can't recall how it came to us - definitely not signed in our presence. Opinions please on the authenticity of the signature.... greatly appreciated.

http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/a...e60tsigned.jpg



closeup: http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/a.../mantlesig.jpg


Thanks,
Bud Obermeyer

[canjond]

Here's a similar one for comparison....

[budob]

thanks Jon. I've looked at several others as well, but I do not have personal expertise on Mantle's signature (or anyone elses for that matter). Still looking for informed opinions on this one.... much appreciated.

[timzcardz]

Hey Bud,

I am certainly not an expert, but I don't recall ever seeing the end of the "e" on Mantle hook upward before.

Hopefully someone else more qualified can give you a better idea.

[GoldenAge50s]

Good point on that last "e" Tim!

[Beatles Guy]

Mine actually stops pretty short, no hook. I watched him sign this, so I know it's legit

[Mr. Zipper]

I'm certainly no expert, but I have my doubts about this signature.

The baseline seems a bit wavy. Slant is inconsistent throughout the signature. Appears slowly drawn with none of the indicators of a fast signature (as was Mick's tendency).

[yanksfan09]

Yeah, I have some doubts too. The N seems funny and I don' think I've seen that hook on the last E before. I don't claim to be an expert, but I'm on the fence on that one. It could be real, but I'd have a few reservations which would make me stay away.

Sometimes, with certain examples, I think no one can tell either way with 100% certainty.

(With Mick, it's always possible he was half in the bag at the time too...)

[budob]

Thanks to all for your insights!

Thanks Tim for the bump!