SCARCE Vintage Single-Signed Mantle Baseball with Choice Autograph!
Reach official American League (Cronin) ball inscribed "Best Wishes, Mickey Mantle" in blue ink (rating "9") across the sweet spot. This ball dates from the 1960-1973 manufacturing period; therefore, there is a greater probability that it was signed by Mantle during the second half of his playing career (1951-1968), and according to the history of the ball, likely in the late 1960s. The exact date of its signing notwithstanding, it is clearly an early Mantle single-signed ball and one that stands in stark contrast to the many thousands signed by Mantle during the 1980s "signing-show boom" that now proliferate in the hobby. Vintage signed baseballs dating from the period of Mantle's playing days are of utmost rarity and are highly prized by advanced collectors today. All of the manufacturer's stampings remain clearly legible. The ball's surface projects an off-white appearance, and only minimal signs of soiling and handling are present. In Excellent condition overall. Accompanied by a full Letters of Authenticity from PSA/DNA.