Mantle Ball - UDA vs PSA 9

[Clueless]

Originally Posted by shelly

I would not listen to anyone one that has given you a suggestion. You know what you want go a enjoy yourself.

Actually, I'm not sure what I want. I want to be sure an autograph is authentic (at least as sure as I can be) and I also want an item that is rare (mint condition). Finding both is very difficult as one other already person noted saying most UDA balls are toned. Thus, it would be helpful to me to hear how others would handle the same situation. If we all just said to do whatever I want and that's all, these boards would be useless to ask any advice. I take it many on here know a lot more than me and I would be interested in hearing these thoughts. In the end, I can determine if I find value in what others say.

From what I've gathered thus far, UDA would provide me with comfort the signature is 100% authentic. However, the toning on the ball means the mint graded ball would carry a greater value if I ever wanted to sell the item down the line. Regardless of whether or not one favors PSA, there is no denying their value in the marketplace.

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by Clueless

as one other already person noted saying most UDA balls are toned.

So UDA uses special balls that tone more than other baseballs. Okay, that makes sense.

[Klrdds]

I think I would wait for a better ball , because it seems that you are unsure what to do and that is not unusual in this hobby, we all have faced that situation before. I would look at my budget and see what I can afford and get the best ball possible when I can afford it even if it is a 10( that is the only grade Mantle I would even consider becaiuse they are available) . Mantle is neither rare or expensive, for most of his baseballs . But keep in mind that PSA and JSA are not infallible as this site and common knowledge have shown; however UDA will give you an "ironclad" item that may tone over time, but ANY autographed ball can tone over time no matter who or where you bought it from; so long term toning can be an issue based on many factors not just the vendor.
Also most Mantle balls are not great investments, in my opinion, because their prices have stabilized and there are plenty of authentic ones to choose from.
Good Luck

[w7imel]

The reason I asked is my baseball from mantle was from scoreboard. Has ZERO toning and while its not in direct light it hasnt been a box either. But I believe ball was produced prior to the non distilled Haiti balls..And while not proud of it it was handled quite a bit early 90's. I was young and all my friends were like "dude can I take it out of the case?" haha being the cool guy I said "why sure!!!" But still to this day no toning. I have a reggie UDA ball tat I bought years later displayed side by side that is starting to look brownish. Also an In person Johhny Bench at a denver show that has splotched everywhere. All displayed side by side

[Runscott]

Originally Posted by w7imel

The reason I asked is my baseball from mantle was from scoreboard. Has ZERO toning and while its not in direct light it hasnt been a box either. But I believe ball was produced prior to the non distilled Haiti balls..And while not proud of it it was handled quite a bit early 90's. I was young and all my friends were like "dude can I take it out of the case?" haha being the cool guy I said "why sure!!!" But still to this day no toning. I have a reggie UDA ball tat I bought years later displayed side by side that is starting to look brownish. Also an In person Johhny Bench at a denver show that has splotched everywhere. All displayed side by side

Michael, thanks for posting this. I don't mind being ignored, but when it's a legitimate question, it's good to finally get a response from someone. It sounds like you are saying that 'distilled' has something to do with toning. Is that correct?

[thetruthisoutthere]

My 2 cents.

Toning on a baseball has NEVER bothered me. I love autographs. Period.

I own two Ken Griffey autographed baseballs from Scoreboard (with their original Scoreboard boxes) and both of them have a fair amount of toning.

I also own four Derek Jeter rookie autographed baseballs from Scoreboard. All four are bright white.

All of my Mickey Mantle autographed baseballs are bright white except for one which has one spot of toning.

I also have a 1998 in-person Derek Jeter autographed baseball. It is heavily toned.

Just be happy with owning an authentic autograph.

I also think that some toning adds character to a baseball.

[chaddurbin]

wait for a nice ball in your price range (either uda or psa). if psa can't authenticate a mantle ball then just close up shop on this hobby.

[thetruthisoutthere]

Originally Posted by chaddurbin

wait for a nice ball in your price range (either uda or psa). if psa can't authenticate a mantle ball then just close up shop on this hobby.

You can purchase a decent Mickey Mantle autographed baseball in the $350.00 range with a PSA/JSA cert.

A UDA ball will cost $400.00 or more.

If you take some time to learn The Mick's signature, there are some great deals out there.

I've purchase a few Mantle sigs on baseballs for under $150.00.

Good luck.