A piece of baseball history is up for grabs as Heritage Auctions presents the iconic game-used bat from legendary player Mickey Mantle’s 1953 World Series performance. This isn’t just any ordinary bat; it comes with a fascinating backstory that adds to its allure.
Back in early 1954, Mantle, alongside his baseball peers Allie Reynolds and Bobby Morgan, made an appearance at the Oklahoma City YMCA Junior Baseball banquet. It was during this event that Mantle’s prized bat became a coveted item. Young baseball enthusiast Robert Nance emerged as the lucky winner of the bat after selling a significant number of event tickets.
The K55 model bat, measuring 35.5 inches and weighing just under 34 ounces, has been meticulously graded PSA/DNA GU 10 for its exceptional condition and authenticity. What makes this bat truly special is Mantle’s own connection to it; he personally informed Nance that he had used this very bat during the 1953 World Series, pointing out the distinct paint streaks from the Yankee Stadium dugout. The bat witnessed Mantle’s remarkable performance, including hitting two home runs against the Dodgers, with one being his only postseason grand slam, contributing to the Yankees’ fifth consecutive World Series victory.
The bat’s authenticity is backed by a letter from Nance recounting the moment Mantle handed it to him, an additional layer that enhances its historical worth. Furthermore, bat expert John Taube from PSA/DNA has verified the bat’s usage in 1953 through factory ordering records, highlighting its exceptional condition characterized by numerous ball marks, stitch impressions, and blue rack streaks.
Described by Heritage Auctions as “unquestionably one of the finest Mantle bats to ever grace the auction block,” this item is a true gem for sports memorabilia collectors. The bidding war for this unique piece of history will come to a close on Friday, May 17, with the price expected to soar well into six figures due to its immense historical significance and sentimental value.
Don’t miss the opportunity to own a tangible piece of Mickey Mantle’s baseball legacy by participating in this auction for the legendary 1953 World Series bat. It’s a chance to own a part of baseball history that will surely be cherished by any enthusiast or collector lucky enough to make it theirs.
