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Lot 437

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Lot Number: 437

Description: Historically significant September 19, 1968 Mickey Mantle autographed 535th Career Home Run inscribed baseball-The McLain "Groove" Pitch (Second to Last Career Home Run)(Mantle Family Provenance). Reach J.Cronin Official American League baseball has been signed on the side panel "My 535th H.R. Mickey Mantle" in period marker rating 6/7 out of 10. The ball displays light soiling and mild wear and has a small "535" notation over the stampings. It was long a treasured keepsake of Mantle and in his possession from the time it was hit until 2003 when it was offered in the landmark auction of his personal collection (lot 228). Then in his final season the aging Legend was already firmly entrenched among baseballs' all-time greats. Though no longer the offensive powerhouse he had been throughout the 1950s and early 60s he was still adding to already impressive career totals. In May of 1967 he collected his 500th home run and in July he hit his 512th to pass Mel Ott on the all-time list moving into 4th place. With the 1968 season winding down Mantle and the New York Yankees played the Tigers in Detroit on September 19th. Denny McLain, himself in the midst of an historic season having become the first pitcher since 1934 to win (30) games, was on the mound when Mantle stepped to the plate in the 8th inning for what was sure to be his final appearance in Tiger Stadium. Legend has it that McLain and his catcher agreed to groove in a pitch and Mickey took advantage launching it into the upper deck grandstand in right field. The home run, number (535) of his career, moved Mantle into third place on the all-time list and would be the second to last of his career. Superlative Mantle home run baseball with unimpeachable provenance and unique history with relation to McLain "groove" pitch. Includes the original Mantle Family Certificate of Authenticity and a full LOA from PSA/DNA: Overall EX

Estimated Price Range: ($50,000-$75,000)

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