A piece of baseball history is poised to make waves in the memorabilia world as a game-used bat from Mickey Mantle’s 1953 World Series is set to go under the hammer at Heritage Auctions. This bat, beyond being a mere piece of equipment, has a captivating backstory that elevates its appeal to collectors and sports enthusiasts alike.
The journey of this iconic bat traces back to early 1954 when Mantle, alongside his fellow baseball stars Allie Reynolds and Bobby Morgan, graced the Oklahoma City YMCA Junior Baseball banquet. It was during this event that the bat, now a sought-after relic, was presented as a prize. The lucky recipient was young attendee Robert Nance, who earned the bat through his outstanding ticket selling efforts for the banquet.
Measuring 35.5 inches and weighing just under 34 ounces, the K55 model bat has been meticulously graded as PSA/DNA GU 10, affirming its impeccable condition and authenticity. What sets this bat apart is Mantle’s personal connection to it, as he personally disclosed to Nance that he had wielded it during the 1953 World Series, highlighting the distinctive paint streaks from the Yankee Stadium dugout. This bat witnessed Mantle’s spectacular performance, including two home runs against the Dodgers, one of which was his sole postseason grand slam, solidifying the Yankees’ fifth consecutive World Series triumph.
Adding a touching dimension to its historical significance is a personal letter from Nance, recounting the moment Mantle handed him the bat, underscoring the emotional value intertwined with its storied past. Furthermore, bat expert John Taube of PSA/DNA corroborated its use in 1953 through meticulous examination of factory ordering records, noting its remarkable condition showcased by numerous ball marks, stitch impressions, and blue rack streaks.
Heritage Auctions has hailed this bat as “undoubtedly one of the most exceptional Mantle bats to grace the hobby’s auction circuit.” Enthusiasts and collectors keen on owning a piece of baseball folklore have a limited window to bid on this cherished artifact as the auction draws to a close on Friday, May 17. Anticipated to fetch a substantial six-figure sum, this bat stands as a beacon of sports history, blending unparalleled historical significance with sentimental value for avid fans of the game.
