A legendary piece of baseball history is making its way to the auction block, as a remarkable game-used bat wielded by Mickey Mantle during the 1953 World Series is up for grabs at Heritage Auctions. This isn’t just any ordinary bat; it holds a captivating backstory that adds layers to its historical significance.
The tale of this iconic bat traces back to a youth baseball banquet held in Oklahoma City in early 1954, attended by Mantle, along with his fellow player Allie Reynolds and Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Bobby Morgan. As part of the event, Mantle’s bat was among the prizes distributed, and young attendee Robert Nance triumphed as its recipient for being one of the top ticket sellers at the banquet.
This K55 model bat stands at 35.5 inches in length and weighs just under 34 ounces, boasting a pristine condition that has earned it a grading of PSA/DNA GU 10 for its authenticity. What sets this bat apart is Mantle’s personal connection to it; he revealed to Nance that this very bat was used during the 1953 World Series, pointing out the paint streaks from the Yankee Stadium dugout. Its historical significance is further elevated by Mantle’s outstanding performance with it, including hitting two home runs against the Dodgers, with one of them being his sole postseason grand slam that contributed to the Yankees’ fifth consecutive World Series victory.
The bat’s provenance is solidified by a letter from Nance recounting the moment Mantle handed it to him, imparting a sentimental touch to its already significant historical value. Furthermore, PSA/DNA bat expert John Taube has verified its use in 1953 through factory ordering documentation, highlighting its exceptional condition marked by a myriad of ball marks, stitch impressions, and blue rack streaks.
Described by Heritage Auctions as “unquestionably one of the finest Mantle bats ever to appear on the hobby’s auction block,” this item is drawing in bids from collectors and sports enthusiasts alike. The opportunity to own this unique piece of sports memorabilia will only be available until the auction concludes on Friday, May 17, with the anticipated price soaring well into six figures due to its remarkable historical and sentimental significance.
