Mickey Mantle Card Identification

[Semitar6]

Mickey Mantle Card Help

I recently purchased a Mickey Mantle Card that I've never seen before. It has a number 828 on it and on a plain white back says "Stahl Test Proof". Any information would be helpful...Thanks

[dstudeba]

Unfortunately I believe that is a reprint 1953 Stahl Meyers Mantle. The 828 number is what I believe is a lot number which would mean the card was distributed with hot dogs and therefore is doubtful it is a proof. Plus from your scan it looks like a reprint, as Stahl Meyers have crisper printing. If you search for 1953 Stahl Meyer Mantles you might even be able to find the original it was copied from. Here is an original for comparison.

[Semitar6]

I figured as much, however I was confused about the blank back because I think the original wasnt blank...I just thought it was rather odd..

[Semitar6]

Just f.y.i. for anyone interested. Heritage auctions just emailed me and told me this is with 99 percent certainty, a authentic printers proof of the Mantle. This is what they told me. "Your card is probably 100% authentic and I say that only because I’m going off a scan. There was a find some years ago of Stahl-Meyers cards that we assume came from an employee of the print shop as they were all blank backed, never had the heavy wax applied nor the corners diecut. None of the cards had any type on the reverse Other examples have sold in the past and based on that your card would probably sell in the $700-1,000 range. Definitely a card I would like to include in our next Signature Catalog Auction in the Fall."

[dstudeba]

Very interesting. I stand by my opinion just as much as before and would be interested to hear what others thought.

I would love to see an example that has sold in the past. I have only followed Stahl Meyers for 6-7 years, but have never seen one in that time.

[Leon]

I have no clue on this card but in Heritage's defense they have 2 of the best card guys in the business, imo, on staff. I doubt many folks in the hobby have handled more vintage cards than Derek and Peter....especially combined.