Mickey Mantle Single-Signed Baseball Inscribed “Oklahoma Kid”

A Rare Gem: Mickey Mantle’s “Oklahoma Kid” Inscribed Baseball

An Unprecedented Find in Baseball Memorabilia

In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the imagination quite like a single-signed baseball by the legendary Mickey Mantle. However, the baseball we present today transcends the ordinary, offering a unique glimpse into the personal side of this iconic player. This OAL Brown baseball, signed on the sweet spot by Mantle himself, bears the rare and personal inscription “Oklahoma Kid” in blue ink, a testament to its singularity and allure.

The Story Behind the Signature

This extraordinary piece was inspected in person by the renowned Jimmy Spence of JSA, who, in his extensive career spanning over twenty-five years, had never encountered a Mantle single-signed baseball with such an inscription. The absence of any exemplars in his vast collection of over a thousand Mantle signatures underscores the rarity of this item. Presented to us as game-used, this baseball was signed by Mantle as a personal favor to a friend, a gesture he seldom extended, making this piece not only rare but also deeply personal.

Provenance and Preservation

The baseball’s journey is as compelling as its inscription. It remained securely stored in a safety deposit box for years, safeguarding its pristine condition until our consignor acquired it from Mantle’s friend. The ball exhibits toning throughout, a natural occurrence over time, yet it retains its charm and historical significance. Accompanying this rare artifact is a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) from JSA, further cementing its place in the annals of sports memorabilia.

• Inscription Rarity: The “Oklahoma Kid” inscription is a unique feature, unseen in other Mantle-signed baseballs.
• Condition: Despite its age, the baseball maintains a remarkable ink rating of 9, indicative of its well-preserved state.
• Authenticity: The presence of the “Mickey Mantle Museum Tom Catal” silver hologram sticker adds an additional layer of authenticity.
• Historical Value: This baseball is not just a collectible; it is a piece of baseball history, offering a personal connection to Mickey Mantle.

An Opportunity for Collectors

For collectors and enthusiasts, this baseball represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of history that is both rare and deeply personal. Its uniqueness and provenance make it an invaluable addition to any baseball collection. As a testament to Mantle’s legacy and the personal stories that enrich the world of sports memorabilia, this baseball is a treasure that transcends time.

Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or add to your collection, this piece stands as a beacon of exclusivity and historical significance. Embrace the opportunity to own a fragment of baseball lore, a testament to Mickey Mantle’s enduring legacy and the personal connections that define the world of sports.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.