A remarkable piece of baseball history is set to change hands as a game-used bat from Mickey Mantle’s unforgettable performance in the 1953 World Series is now available for bidding at Heritage Auctions. This artifact holds more than just its physical properties; it carries with it a captivating story that adds depth to its already illustrious past.
Stepping back to early 1954, Mantle, alongside fellow baseball stars Allie Reynolds and Bobby Morgan, graced the Oklahoma City YMCA Junior Baseball banquet. It was during this event that Mantle’s bat found its way into the hands of a young attendee named Robert Nance, who had shown exceptional dedication in selling event tickets. Little did he know, this bat would become a cherished piece of baseball history.
The K55 model bat stands at 35.5 inches and weighs just under 34 ounces, a testament to the era’s craftsmanship. Graded as PSA/DNA GU 10, this bat exemplifies pristine condition and undisputed authenticity. Its allure is further heightened by Mantle’s personal connection to it, as he recounted to Nance that this specific bat was wielded by him during the 1953 World Series, evident from the paint streaks originating from the Yankee Stadium dugout where the magic unfolded.
Mantle’s exceptional performance wielding this bat is etched in baseball folklore, with highlights including two monumental home runs against the formidable Dodgers, one of which notably being his sole postseason grand slam. These feats played a crucial role in securing the Yankees their fifth consecutive World Series title, cementing Mantle’s legacy as a baseball legend.
The bat’s provenance is robustly supported by a detailed letter from Nance recounting the moment Mantle conferred it to him, interweaving a personal touch into its historical fabric. Furthermore, PSA/DNA bat expert John Taube corroborated its vintage through meticulous examination of factory ordering records, emphasizing the remarkable condition showcased by numerous ball marks, stitch impressions, and the trademark blue rack streaks.
Described by Heritage Auctions as “unquestionably one of the finest Mantle bats ever to appear on the hobby’s auction block,” this piece is a prized possession for any avid collector. As the auction draws to a close on Friday, May 17, enthusiasts and collectors alike have the chance to make this iconic piece a part of their collection, with the auction house anticipating a bidding war leading the final price well beyond six figures due to its unparalleled historical and sentimental worth.
