A piece of baseball history is making its way to the auction block as a game-used bat from Mickey Mantle’s iconic 1953 World Series performance is set to be bid on at Heritage Auctions. This particular bat holds a special place in baseball lore, having once been presented as a prize at a youth baseball banquet in Oklahoma City, adding a layer of charm to its already prestigious provenance.
The tale behind this remarkable artifact goes back to the early months of 1954 when Mantle, joined by his fellow player Allie Reynolds and Brooklyn Dodgers’ pitcher Bobby Morgan, attended the Oklahoma City YMCA Junior Baseball banquet. It was during this event that Mantle’s bat was handed out as one of the prizes, eventually landing in the hands of young attendee Robert Nance, who had excelled as a top ticket seller for the occasion.
Measuring at 35.5 inches and nearly 34 ounces in weight, the K55 model bat has garnered a prestigious grading of PSA/DNA GU 10 for its impeccable condition and unwavering authenticity. What sets this bat apart is the personal touch added by Mantle himself, who informed Nance that this very bat was wielded by him during the 1953 World Series, pointing out the distinct paint marks from the Yankee Stadium dugout. Its significance is further elevated by Mantle’s standout performance with this bat, which included hitting two home runs against the Dodgers, with one being his sole postseason grand slam, contributing significantly to the Yankees’ fifth consecutive World Series triumph.
Adding to the bat’s provenance is a heartfelt letter from Nance recounting the moment Mantle bestowed the bat upon him, imbuing it with an added layer of historical value. Furthermore, PSA/DNA bat expert John Taube has authenticated the bat’s usage in 1953 by referencing factory ordering records, highlighting its remarkable condition marked by an array of ball imprints, stitch impressions, and blue rack streaks.
Described as “unquestionably one of the finest Mantle bats ever to appear on the hobby’s auction block” by Heritage Auctions, this item stands as a true gem for baseball enthusiasts and collectors alike. The opportunity to own this extraordinary piece of sports memorabilia will be available to bidders until the close of the auction on Friday, May 17, with the price anticipated to soar well into the six figures, given its profound historical and sentimental significance.
