A slice of baseball history is up for grabs as Heritage Auctions presents a gem from the past – Mickey Mantle’s 1953 World Series bat. This piece of sports memorabilia holds more than just a historical record; it carries the personal touch of Mantle himself, making it a coveted item for avid collectors and baseball enthusiasts alike.
The story behind this extraordinary bat traces back to a youth baseball banquet held in Oklahoma City in early 1954. Mantle, alongside his fellow baseball stars Allie Reynolds and Bobby Morgan, attended the event, where the bat was raffled off as one of the prizes. Young Robert Nance emerged as the lucky winner after proving his mettle as one of the top ticket sellers for the banquet.
This K55 model bat, measuring 35.5 inches in length and weighing just under 34 ounces, has been authenticated and graded as PSA/DNA GU 10. The bat’s significance is amplified by Mantle’s direct association with it; he personally acknowledged to Nance that this very bat had been used during the 1953 World Series, pointing out the paint streaks from the Yankee Stadium dugout. This bat witnessed memorable moments as Mantle smacked two home runs against the Dodgers, including his sole postseason grand slam, aiding the Yankees in clinching their fifth consecutive World Series title.
Adding to its credibility, a letter from Nance recounting the bat’s handover by Mantle further solidifies its provenance and sentimental value. Moreover, PSA/DNA bat expert John Taube authenticated the bat’s usage in 1953 through factory records, highlighting its exceptional condition marked by numerous ball marks, stitch impressions, and blue rack streaks.
Described by Heritage Auctions as “undoubtedly one of the most exceptional Mantle bats to hit the auction scene,” this piece is a treasure trove for avid sports memorabilia collectors. The opportunity to bid on this iconic artifact will be open until the auction concludes on Friday, May 17, with expectations soaring high into six figures due to its remarkable historical significance and personal touch from Mantle himself. Don’t let this chance to own a piece of baseball folklore slip away.