1951 Jim Brideweser/Mickey Mantle Rookie NY Yankees Game-Used Bat Autographed By Mantle

The Earliest Known Mickey Mantle Autographed Game-Used Bat

A Legendary Tale Confirmed

In the world of baseball memorabilia, stories often pass down through generations, growing in legend and allure. It is a rare delight when such a tale is verified, especially when it involves an artifact as significant as the earliest known Mickey Mantle autographed game-used bat. This extraordinary piece of history is steeped in a narrative that intertwines the lives of baseball legends and devoted fans.

The Story Behind the Bat

In 1951, during the 152nd and 153rd games of the season, rookie Mickey Mantle and Jim Brideweser were teammates for a victorious doubleheader against the Boston Red Sox. As recounted by the Fleischer family of Merrick, NY, “My grandparents went to a game at Yankee Stadium. During a Mantle at bat, the bat broke and the barrel came flying into the stands. My grandfather caught the barrel end. After the game, the bat boy tracked down my grandparents and said Mr. Mantle would like to apologize and sign the bat for you. They gave him the bat, he returned with both ends and the bat signed by Mickey. The bat has been cared for and cherished by the family ever since.”

Authenticity and Provenance

Upon inspection, the signature on the bat was authenticated by Jimmy Spence of JSA, who confirmed it as a 1951 vintage Mantle signature. John Taube of PSA/DNA further validated the bat’s origin, dating it to 1951. It was common during this era for players, especially rookies, to use bats belonging to other players. This particular bat, manufactured by H&B, is a Jim Brideweser M110 model, measuring 34.5 inches in length and weighing 34.9 ounces. The bat is crafted from ash wood and exhibits signs of game use, including:

• Cracked handle, taped back together
• Ball and hit marks on the right, left, and back barrel
• Blue bat rack streaks on the front, left, and back barrel
• Cleat marks on the left barrel
• Moderate coat of pine tar on the handle under the tape

The bat’s condition is rated as excellent game-use, with a clear coat added to preserve Mantle’s signature, which is rated a 9 in black ink. This remarkable piece is accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from PSA/DNA, a LOA from JSA, and a letter of provenance from the consignor.

A Piece of Baseball History

This bat is not just a piece of wood; it is a tangible connection to the early days of Mickey Mantle’s illustrious career. It represents a moment in time when a young Mantle was beginning to carve out his legacy in Major League Baseball. For collectors and enthusiasts, this bat is a rare opportunity to own a piece of history that has been lovingly preserved by a family who witnessed its story firsthand.

Explore more about this and other exceptional sports memorabilia available at Grey Flannel Auctions. Whether you are looking to consign baseball jerseys or sell MLB items, our platform offers unparalleled opportunities for collectors and sellers alike.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.