Mickey Mantle

Mickey Mantle was a legendary New York Yankees outfielder and later first baseman, known for his unprecedented combination of speed and power, tape-measure home runs, and leading the Yankees to seven World Series titles from 1951-1969. He set World Series records including 18 home runs, 42 runs scored, 40 RBI, 43 walks, 26 extra base hits, and 123 total bases; raised in Oklahoma by a former minor leaguer father who taught him to switch-hit.

First released in 1968 by Topps as part of the 1968 Topps Baseball set, card #280 out of 598 cards.

• Last Topps card featuring Mantle during his playing career (1951-1968); first Topps card listing him as first baseman after moving from outfield in 1967.
• Not part of the high number series (cards 458-598), making it relatively easier to find.
• Highlights his record 18 World Series home runs; 1968 stats: 103 hits, 57 runs, 18 HR, 54 RBI, .237 BA, .782 OPS.

Condition. Check for centering issues common in 1968 Topps cards, print defects, edge wear, corner rounding, surface scratches, and wax stains; not high number so less prone to shortness but still check borders.

Storage. Store in card sleeves with top loaders or semi-rigid holders, in cool, dry environment away from light and humidity; use card stock dividers in binders.

Authenticity. Examine print quality, card stock thickness, and reverse golden background for authenticity; verify against known population reports from graded/graded/graded; no known reprints from original print run, but watch for modern fakes with poor registration or ink bleeding.