Fascinating Example of the Iconic 1952 Topps Mickey Mantle Offered in Goldin Auction

As a holy grail of sports card collectibles, the 1952 Topps #311 featuring New York Yankees legend Mickey Mantle is one of the most beloved and valuable cards in the hobby. In top condition, the cards can easily sell for seven figures, like an example graded CGC 8 that realized more than $1.2 million in December 2022. In fact, a different high-grade example currently holds the crown for the most expensive sports card ever sold at auction, realizing $12.6 million in an August 2022 sale.

While not all examples of the 1952 Topps #311 are created equal, even those in less-than-ideal condition still command attention and spirited bidding at auction. One fascinating example of the famous card is currently being offered in Goldin's 2025 July Elite Auction, which ends on August 9, 2025. A 1952 Topps #311 Mickey Mantle - Type 2 certified as CGC Authentic (lot 222) has garnered over 25 bids, now topping $7,000, with four days left in the sale.

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At first glance, the above example features about every challenge a card could have when evaluated on the rigorous 10-point grading scale. Creasing, rips and tears, discoloration, corner damage, edge wear, stains, surface damage and other catastrophic flaws are seen throughout, which suggests the card has been on quite the journey in its seven-plus decades. This isn't the tale of an unearthed vintage rarity ready to break records at auction. Instead, it's a story of a well-worn example that looks like it's been through the wringer, making for what is one of the more unique versions you'll ever see of a 1952 Topps #311.

While the auction house doesn't share a specific story as to how this Mantle card came to be in its current condition, it did share a couple of amusing possibilities. Did it accidentally flow through a storm drain? Did it end up in the rinse cycle while washing clothes? If only the card could recount its own journey through the years, it would certainly have plenty to share about the inauspicious circumstances that led to its weathered state. While it may not be in great condition, it is still an authentic 1952 Topps #311, and serious collectors who covet the card now have the rare opportunity to add it to their collection without having to pay six figures or more.

The 1952 Topps Baseball set is one of the most revered groups of sports cards ever issued. The 407-card set revolutionized the hobby with its unique images, bright colors and increase in size, quality and quantity. The set paved the way for modern sports cards but was underappreciated in the hobby during its day. Released in six separate series, the high-numbered cards like the #311 Mickey Mantle were overlooked upon release.

The cards were underappreciated so much so that the New York City-based Topps company allegedly dumped tons of unsold card cases in a nearby waterway, which led to the set's current scarcity. Only around 2,000 of the #311 cards are believed to survive today, with only a handful graded 8 or higher.

When the card was released in 1952, it was only Mantle's second year donning the famous pinstripes of the New York Yankees. That same season, the athletic center fielder earned his first All-Star selection and helped the Yankees win another World Series. In 1969, Mantle retired as the greatest switch-hitter to ever play the game. He won the Triple Crown in 1956, won the AL MVP three times and won the World Series seven times during his legendary MLB career.

Related Links:

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