[Bored5000]

Originally Posted by Peter_Spaeth

Because nobody collecting now saw Ruth, whereas Mantle was a folk hero to a whole generation of guys many of whom are still living. And 1952 Topps is the set that brought in modern collecting.

I understand the reason why the 1952 Topps Mantle is iconic and that set's impact on the hobby. I should have worded that better and said I don't understand the whole PSA 10 factor at play and why it turns a common card into a six or seven or eight figure card.