Is this 52 Mantle authentic?

[the 'stache]

Originally Posted by pawpawdiv9

Looks real to be, based on this site: http://home.comcast.net/~52mantle/52toppsmantlereal.htm

That's the page I used when I made my comparison, and it was the top border that raised questions for me. It's supposed to clearly extend beyond the vertical border on either side, and from the auction picture, I couldn't see that. And, as a general rule of thumb, I am always suspicious when I see a raw '52 Topps Mantle.

If the buyer got better pictures, and it shows that the border not appearing is due to some type of paper issue, or fading, and not due to a forgery attempt, then I withdraw my initial comment. But I could only comment on what I saw.

[Volod]

I guess the general consensus in the hobby - at least among veteran, knowledgeable collectors - is that it is no longer possible - or likely - that some naif might open a drawer in a musty old desk and find a Mantle card lying untouched there for 60 years? My last illusions have been put to rest.