The Mantle Curse

A Legendary Night at the Banana Boat Lounge: Mickey Mantle’s Signed Bar Check

An Unforgettable Encounter

In the vibrant atmosphere of the Banana Boat Lounge in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, during the spring of 1977, an extraordinary piece of baseball memorabilia was born. Our consignor, a drummer in the house band, recounts a night when baseball legends graced the venue. Among them was the iconic Mickey Mantle, whose presence alone would have been enough to etch the night into memory. However, what transpired that evening transcended the ordinary, resulting in a unique artifact that captures the spirit of baseball’s golden era.

The Signatures That Tell a Story

On that fateful night, Mickey Mantle, accompanied by his illustrious friends, left a lasting mark by signing a bar check. Mantle’s inscription, “To Mary Ann Our Best Fuckin Wishes Mickey Mantle,” penned in bold blue ink, stands as a testament to his charismatic personality. This signature, rated a strong 9, is complemented by the autograph of his teammate, Yogi Berra, whose signature rates an 8. The narrative takes an intriguing turn with the playful antics of Billy Martin and Bob Lemon. Instead of signing their own names, Martin humorously penned “Jackie Robinson,” while Lemon followed suit with “Bob Ruth,” both signatures rating an impressive 8-9.

A Piece of Baseball History

• Historical Significance: A rare convergence of baseball legends at a single event.
• Unique Provenance: The bar check captures a moment of camaraderie and humor among Hall of Famers.
• Condition and Story: The check bears creases and discoloration, adding character and authenticity to its storied past.
• Accompanied by LOA: Comes with a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, ensuring its place in baseball lore.

Preserving the Legacy

This remarkable artifact is more than just a signed bar check; it is a window into the past, offering a glimpse of the personalities that shaped baseball history. The creases and discoloration, possibly from Mantle’s preferred drink, add to its charm and authenticity. Such pieces are rare treasures in the world of sports memorabilia auctions, capturing the essence of a bygone era.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this bar check represents an opportunity to own a piece of history that is as unique as the legends who signed it. As you consider adding this to your collection, remember that it is not just an item; it is a story, a moment, and a legacy. Explore more exceptional baseball collectibles for sale at our MLB auctions and discover the stories behind each piece.

Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or simply wish to appraise your own treasures, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in celebrating the rich history of sports.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.