This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/1/2013
Some images are so profound; they require no explanation, this indeed is one of those images. After Mickey Mantle’s passing on August 13th, 1995 it was only natural for Sports Illustrated to commemorate the Commerce Comet by gracing his image on the August 21st 1995 edition. During the printing process this extremely rare printing proof was used as an original prior to the mass production of what has become one of the most collectible Sports Illustrated issues in history. The first ever to hit the market, this 11.5” x 8” printing proof was used to ensure proper color to what is now an historic Mantle image. Items such as this are closely guarded by the printers of Sports Illustrated & has been acquired directly by a former 3rd party employee who shared a business & personal relationship with the Mick. A true rarity, not to be passed up by any SI or Mantle collector. LOA from Iconic Memorabilia.